Senators approved a slew of finance bills at a session on Wednesday.

The following bills became law: the Bermuda Monetary Authority Amendment Act 2008, the Stamp Duties Amendment Act 2008, the Revenue Amendment Act 2008, the Customs Tariff Amendment Act 2008 and the Retail Shops (Temporary Customs Duty Relief for Capital Investments) Act 2008.

Opposition Senate Leader Michael Dunkley said his party supported the Customs Tariff Amendment Act, but questioned whether increasing the duty on cigarettes was enough to stop people smoking.

Senate President Alf Oughton agreed, pointing out that similar measures in the UK had had little effect.

The Upper House also approved the National Occupational Certification Regulations 2008, which will mean all tradesmen and women will be certified and qualified to work anywhere in the world.