These remarkable minutes are from a 1988 meeting of cigarette manufacturers from the U.S., United Kingdom, Germany, Austria, Canada and Japan who met to discuss global strategies for dealing with the industry's greatest threat: the secondhand smoke issue.
The minutes contain a fascinating discussion wherein a representative of the German cigarette industry, Dr. Franz Adlkofer, departs from the industry's established route of promoting global deceit on the secondhand smoke issue and urges the industry representatives to adopt a more responsible course:
During the meeting, Dr. Adlkofer questioned the industry's continuing creation of it's own "marketable science." In a stunning departure from typical industry plotting, Dr. Adlkofer stated that what the industry was really seeking was "good public relations material, not good science." Dr. Adlkofer further said that "real science" would be "essential if the industry was to prevail on the ETS issue." Furthermore, Adlkofer "refused to endorse a situation in which scientific research is guided by public relations needs." Adlkofer questioned the wisdom of the industry's present course on the ETS (environmental tobacco smoke) issue and urged the industry instead to concentrate on identifying a threshold level for risk of ETS exposure. This controversial suggestion caused "widespread disagreement" among the meeting's participants. Dr. Boyce of British American Tobacco (BAT) said that the "no-threshold argument would automatically indict active smoking." Thomas Osdene of Philip Morris helpfully suggested that "a threshold level could be set, but that the threshold not be quantified." Another attendee, Mr. Westcott (a consultant to Philip Morris U.S.A.) said that setting such a limit would be "dangerous" because it would provide "a priori proof of causation for anti-smoking advocates," and "would indict active smoking." John Rupp, of the U.S. tobacco industry's law firm Covington and Burling, further stated that "the industry should continue to emphasize the lack of substantive proof of causation." To this Adlkofer responded, "Science cannot propel the industry any further on the ETS issue unless it is able to say that not one person has died from exposure to ETS." There was nothing further added in discussion of this landmark statement.
The rest of the document is full of descriptions of the industry's existing path of global deceit on the ETS issue.
The Japanese tobacco industry representative said that the public and medical professions "must be better informed on ETS research," adding that,
..."in providing this information, the industry must be inconspicuous. Otherwise, he argued, the public will suspect the authenticity of the information. He recommended the use of third parties to convey the industry's message."
The Canadian tobacco industry representative indicated his awareness that there was almost total public support in Canada for regulation of smoking, reporting that "85-90% of Canadians, both smokers and non-smokers, are not against smoking regulation." Despite this acknowledgement, however, he went on to state a Canadian tobacco industry priority was "to underwrite the Smoker's Freedom Society, a group that publicly represents smokers' interests and is separate from the tobacco industry," showing that the Canadian tobacco industry intended to create and fund a group to oppose smoking regulations where there normally would be virutally no opposition, and that they intended to give the group the appearance of being separate from their industry.
User-Contributed Notes
Fields
Notes
Marked "PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT." Privilege has been removed.
Quotes
JULY 15, 1988
JOINT MEETING ON ETS - LONDON, ENGLAND
The Industry Interface Meeting on ETS (hereinafter "Joint
Meeting") was held on June 17, 1988 at the St. James Court Hotel in London. A list of participants is attached. The stated objective of this meeting was 'to bring together industry scientists to discuss scientific research and strategies on ETS and how these relate globally.' "
[From Page 5, Bates No. 2021548226]
F. SUMMARY
Don Hoe1 summarized the first session by noting that
anti-smoking activities are occurring in all of the represented areas. These activities are not only generated locally, but also by international organizations such as the World Health Organization, which has publicly stated that a causal link between ETS and human disease has been conclusively established.
"II. INDUSTRY RESEARCH AND OBJECTIVES..."
[From Page 6, Bates No. 2021548227]
"...Following the EEC presentation, Professor Adlkofer pro-
vided the participants with his views, and presumably the views of his colleagues, on the future direction of ETS research. According to Adlkofer, the existing science demands that the industry recognize that possible health risks from ETS exist because those risks cannot be disproved. As a result, Adlkofer advocates that research be focused on determining the threshold level of adverse
effects from environmental tobacco smoke, and that fewer resources be expended on epidemiological studies."
[From Page 7, Bates No. 2021548228]
"Following the UK presentation, Professor Adlkofer ques-
tioned the use of the term "marketable science". Andrew Nelmes defined this term as unflawed scientific studies whose objectives are understandable to laymen and are thus useful in public relations efforts. Professor Adlkofer responded that what Nelmes wanted was good public relations material, not good science."
[From Pages 7-8, Bates Nos. 2021548228-8229]
"D. UNITED STATES
Dr. Thomas Osdene of Phillp Morris reported on behalf
of the U.S. industry and outlined the activities of CIAR [Center for Indoor Air Research]...Phillp Morris, Lorillard and R.J. Reynolds formed CIAR to facilitate and support new research on indoor air quality generally, not just ETS. Likely topics of CIAR-sponsored research include air quality in airline cabins and in the workplace. ... CIAR may also publish a scientific newsletter and/or peer-reviewed journal in order to facilitate the dissemination of information obtained... Dr. Osdene stressed that CIAR's independence will be maintained by distancing it from the Tobacco Institute..."
[From Page 10, Bates No. 2021548231]
A. UNITED STATES
John Lyons, of the Tobacco Institute, began his presenta-
tion by expressing his approval for the "marketable science"
concept. He then outlined the legislative, legal and public
relations endeavors of the TI. He described these programs as
being merely "holding actions" until science adequately counters
the results of the 1986 Surgeon General's Report. That report has
emboldened anti-smoking activist in the U.S. and has had a marked
effect on the public generally. Presently, 49% of American object
to ETS even if it has no effect on health.
With regard to ETS, the TI has adopted two primary
objectives: (1) to prevent further bans on cigarette smoking and (2) to change adverse public attitudes toward smoking. To achieve these goals, TI has adopted a number of strategies that can be summarized as follows:
(1) To oppose all legislative, regulatory, judicial and
voluntary efforts that discriminate unfairly against
smokers;
(2) To encourage scientific research and present research
results, while criticizing inferior research;
(3) To limit superficial debates regarding ETS, especially in the press;
(4) To increase public awareness of indoor air pollution
and the need for better ventilation;
(5) To demonstrate that the estimated social costs
associated with smoking are incorrect;
(6) To increase awareness of the extremism and zealotry
employed by anti-smoking groups;
(7) To demonstrate that smokers expect and are entitled
to common courtesy from non-smokers;
(8) To promote smokers' rights measures;
(9) To demonstrate publicly that overreaction to any
annoyance, including smoking, is anti-social; and
(10) To provide information on how to diffuse conflicts
between smokers and non-smokers."
[From Page 12, Bates No. 2021548233]
Dr. Adlkofer deviated from the agenda and discussed the
direction of ETS research. According to Adlkofer, analytlcal
breakthroughs are unlikely in the ETS area if research continues on its present course. Conventional epidemiology has provided few benefits to the industry. A focus is now needed on "modern epidemiology" and human exposure studies, as well as further exploration of the alleged mechanisms of effect. He also called for the identification of a threshold level for risk. Dr. Adlkofer indicated that this approach has already been adopted in Germany.
Dr. Adlkofer's suggestion created widespread disagreement
among the meeting's participants. Mr. Westcott stated that setting a threshold is dangerous because it provides a priori proof of causation for anti-smoking advocates. Mr. Rupp agreed, stating that an acceptable threshold for ETS may nevertheless indict active smoking. Rupp then engaged in a defense of existing scientific undertakings. He noted that epidemiological evidence is necessary if for no other reason than to effectively respond to anti-smoking
groups, which are still engaged in epidemiological research.
Rupp concluded by expressing the view that the industry should continue to emphasize the lack of substantive proof of causation..."
[From page 13, Bates No. 202115448234]
"Dr. Adlkofer agreed with Mr. Rupp that epidemiological
studies should go forward in order to counter arguments by anti-smoking forces. He disagreed, however, with Rupp's views against setting a threshold for ETS. According to Adlkofer, science cannot propel the industry any further on the ETS issue unless it is able to say that not one person has died from exposure to ETS.
Other views were also expressed on the threshold problem.
Dr. Boyce of BAT stated that the "no threshold" argument automatically indicts active smoking. Dr. Stuhl called on the industry to dispel the "no threshold/one molecule" theory and the contention that animal carcinogens are automatically human carcinogens. Dr. Osdene suggested that a threshold level could be set, but that the threshold not be quantified. At this point, Don Hoe1 concluded
the discussion generated by Dr. Adlkofer's comments..."
"Dr. Ichinose reported the Japanese view that both the
public and the medical profession must be better informed on ETS research. In providing this information, the industry must be inconspicuous. Otherwise, he argued, the public will suspect the authenticity of the information. He recommended the use of third parties to convey the industry's message."
..."D. CANADA
Mr. Dunn reported that 85-90% of Canadians, smokers and
non-smokers, are not against smoking regulation...."
Company
Philip Morris Cos., Inc.
Author
N/A
Recipient
Presumably attendees of the meeting, which included representatives from American, British, European and Japanese tobacco companies
Nonprofit organization funded by the tobacco industry. CIAR was formed in March 1988 by tobacco companies "to sponsor "high-quality research on indoor air issues and to facilitate communication of research findings to the broad scientific community."
The purpose of the Institute was to defeat legislation unfavorable to the industry, put a positive spin on the tobacco industry, bolster the industry's credibility with legislators and the public, and help maintain the controversy over "the primary issue" (the health issue).
Hoel, Donald K.(CTR Industry Research Committee & PM Attorney, Shook Hardy)
Donald Hoel was an attorney with Philip Morris' law firm Shook Hardy and Bacon (SHB). He served as a member of the CTR Industry Research Committee in 1978?. Hoel assisted in screening "apppropriate" projects to received CTR funding.
Argued in a 1988 joint meeting of the worldwide tobacco companies that the industry should stop developing "marketable science" for use in public relations to fight the secondhand smoke issue and instead should establish a safe threshold for exposure to secondhand smoke. (Bates No. 2021548222/8235)
Rupp, John P.(TI Communication Committee, Covington & Burling lawyer)
TI Communication Committee
Ichinose
Nelmes, Andrew J.(Gallaher, Industry Affairs Manager, Corp. Affairs)
1993 First scientist to report in 1950 on the carginocencity of cigarettes in rats painted with tar. Assistant at Sloan-Kettering Institute for Cancer Research Directed the American Health Foundation (AHF) from 1984 to his death in 1998.
Frequently funded by the tobacco industry to criticize and discount published and epidemiological studies that linked between tobacco smoking and health damage.
Director and Principal Scientist, Tobacco Science and Technology, Fabriques De Tabac Reunite, S.A., (1987). Helmut Gaisch was an attendee at Philip Morris's 1987 Operation Downunder Conference, held to determine a new strategy the company could take on the issue of ETS. (PM's "Accommodation" strategy was borne from this conference). Gaisch worked to thwart ETS regulations in Europe using data from INBIFO. He was a Philip Morris European scientist, Head of Laboratories, FTR/Philip Morris Europe. Member to Tobacco Advisory Council (TAC), 1987.
Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry. Ten years of research when he started with PM in 1965. Worked in Chemical Research Division of PM 1965-66; Chemical and Biological Research Division 1966-69; Director of Research 1969-1984, also assumed independent position as Director of Research and Extramural Studies during these years; became Director of Science and Technology in 1984, reporting directly to Philip Morris USA Executive VP Mark Serrano. Involved with Center for Indoor Air Research (CIAR) 1988. Attended PM's Operation Downunder Conference in June, 1987. Retired 1993.
Ward, M.
Mackay, Judith(Director, Asian Consultancy on Tobacco Control, Hong Kong)
Helmut Reif was Director of Science and Technology for FTR. (PMI's Introduction to Privilege Log and Glossary of Names, Estate of Burl Butler v. PMI, et al, April 19, 1996)
PRIVILEGED ~ CONFIDENTIkL
ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT
MEMORANDUM
DATE:
RE:
JULY 15, 1988
JOINT MEETING ON ETS - LONDON, ENGLAND
The Industry Interface Meeting on ETS (hereinafter "Joint
Meeting") was held on June 17, 1988 at the St. James Court Hotel
in London. A list of participants is attached. The stated
objective of this meeting was "to bring together industry scientists
to discuss scientific research and strategies on ETS and how these
relate globally." Before proceeding to topics listed on the agenda,
Don Hoe1, who chaired "the meeting, requested that those present
assess whether a need for joint meetings exists and suggest possible
improvements for future meetings. Thereafter, the discussions
generally followed the agenda, which was broken down into three
topic areas: (1) national and international activities and
attitudes, (2) industry research and objectives, and (3) scientific
information and media objectives and activities.
I. ~ATIONALAND INTERNATIONAL ACTIVITIES AND ATTITUDES
A. EEC
Professor Adlkofer of the Verband der Cigarettenindustrie
reported that anti-smoking groups have become increasingly active
in Europe, particularly with regard to ETS. As a result, both
individual countries and the EEC are responding with programs to
.address the ETS issue. For example, the EEC recently launched its
"Europe Against Cancer" program, whlch identifies ETSas a substance
that should be avoided by non-smokers. It was also reported that
the West German Health Ministry is promoting anti-smoking proposals
that include educational campaigns directed toward children and
non-smokers exposed to ETS. The West German Cabinet is expected
to consider these proposals in September.
Because many politicians within the EEC favor legal and
political action to placate anti-smoking advocates, anti-smoking
PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL
ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT
activities are expected to continue and increase in intensity.
Both company scientists and independent scientists who disagree
with the U.S. Surgeon General's opinions on ETS are cooperating, but
even more research is essential if the industry is to effectively
counter the activities of anti-smoking advocates in the EEC.
B. UNITED STATES
John Rupp of Covington Burling reported that .the
present tone of the ETS debate in t~e United States Is negative.
This is true because the conclusions of the National Academy of
Sciences and the U.S. Surgeon General are wldely cited in scientific
literature and the popular press. Nevertheless, 1988 has proved
to be a good year from a legislative standpoint. Despite numerous
proposals and hearings, no statewide smoking restrictions and no
municipal restrictions of significance have been adopted.
The most negative occurrence in the U.S. was the two
year ban of smoking on domestic airline flights of two hours or
less. Although many observers expect the ban to be extended beyond
the initial trial period, the industry is already preparing its
plans to challenge the ban's renewal. These plans include a
possible DOT-sponsored study of air quality aboard commercial
airlines.
Other recent political developments have proved to be
less significant than originally expected. In California, where
tobacco smoke was added to the list of carcinogens for which Propo-
sition 65 requires a warning, it now appears that a generic warning
will suffice. As a result, Proposition 65 is not expected to have
a significant impact on the industry. Similarly, the Environmental
Protection Agency's proposed brochures on ETS appear to be more a
threat than a reality. Nevertheless, attempts still are being
made to moderate the EPA's position on ETS.
According to Mr. Rupp, the greatest threat to public
smoking is not leglslation, but rather social attitude. Public
attitudes toward smoking are deteriorating because of .concerns
about ETS that were raised, by the National Academy of Sciences'
and the Surgeon General's reports. Mr. Rupp believes that Center
for Indoor Air Research (CIAR) and Tobacco Institute (TI) programs
may make some headway on this issue, however.
Despite many widely-heralded negative developments on
.ETS, smoking is still permitted in most public places in the U.S.,
and no sweeping federal antl-smoking legislation is expected in
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1988 or 1989. As a result, the present mood of the U.S. industry
on the ETS issue can best be described as "hopeful."
C. JAPAN
Dr. Ichinose, of Japan Tobacco Incorporated (JTI),
speaking through a translator, reported that four government
ministries have become involved with ETS-related issues. The
Ministry of Health and Welfare is planning to issue a medical paper
on smoking and health and is also providing educational materials
and other types of assistance to persuade smokers to quit. The
Ministry of Labor has set up a panel to discuss smoking in the
workplace, and a report is expected soon. The Ministry of Education
is preparing pamphlets on smoking for distribution in primary,
secondary, and senior secondary schools. The Ministry of Finance
is presently studying the impact of changing public attitudes toward
smoking on Japanese industry. In addition to these activities at
the national level, local governments have begun distributing
pamphlets on the alleged hazards of tobacco smoke.
Several scientific conferences on ETS have also been
held in Japan recently. At the Sixth World Conference on Smoking
and Health, participants called for greater governmental action
against smoking. This conclusion, which was widely reported by
the Ministry of Health and Welfare, has assisted anti-smoking
activists in Japan. On the other hand, the International Conference
on Indoor Air Quality held in Tokyo stressed the need for more ETS
research.
Although 85.6% of the Japanese population believe that
smokers and nonsmokers can live together if both groups remain
courteous, proposals for restrictions on smoking continue to be
made. The Tokyo Bar Association, for example, has urged
restrictions on public smoking and an advertising ban. Others are
calling for smoking bans in government buildings and in workplaces
generally. An increasing number of companies are completely banning
smoking on the premises. In a recent study, 40% of companies with
new facilities limited smoking in order to protect office equipment.
of non-smoking seats has increased by 50% since 1984.
Smoking restrictions are being imposed on public
transportation as well. A number of Japanese cities have imposed
smoking bans on subway~ and trains. Also, airlines are increasing_
the number of non-smoklng seats on their fllghts. The total number~
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D. UNITED KINGDOM
In the United Kingdom, Andrew Nelmes of Gallaher Limited
reported that efforts to restrict smoking have been focused on the
workplace and public facilities. Government ministries and
committees have proved to be the most common forum for such
discussions.
The Department of Health and Social Security
example, issues reports on smoking and
Independent Scientific Committee (ISC).
assisted the Committee in preparation of
industry was able to modify the overall
pointing out areas where a lack of data
that the Committee's estimate of risk
objectively presented. The Independent Scientific Committee is now
expected to take a "wait-and-see" attitude toward ETS and evaluate
new studies as they are published. At the same time, however, the
Health Education Authority of DHSS, which informs the public on
health matters and disease prevention, has begun directing its
efforts toward smoking cessation.
(DHSS), for
health prepared by the
Because the industry
its Fourth Report, the
tone of the report by
exists and by ensuring
from ETS exposure was
The Tobacco Advisory Council (TAC) is taking steps to
promote the industry's position on ETS. For example, TAC has
developed a pamphlet entltled "Smoking Policies at Work," which
provides a strategy for settling disputes between smokers and non-
smokers. Also, TAC is promoting the view that ETS is a symptom of
poor ventilation and that laws ensuring adequate ventilation in
the workplace are needed.
In discussions following the UK presentation, the par-
ticipants expressed their mutual frustration over the ETS issue.
Many held the opinion that a coordinated, world-wide response is
needed. Others, believing the ETS issue to be more political than
scientific, questioned whether scientific studies are effective in
attacking the deterioration of public attitudes toward smoking.
E. CANADA
Mr. Dunn of ImperiaI Tobacco Limited, the Canadian
representative, reported that the situation in his country is
"extreme" because many elements of society are calling for ~
restr~ctlons on smoking.. Antl-smokigg forces in Canada are well-
organlzed and are effectlvely employlng information gathered from~
around the world. Also, many health professionals are calllng forK
smoking restrictions. As a result, the Canadian Parliament recently~
P~I~II~D ~ CON~ID~'~I~L
~I~0~ ~OR~
enacted anti-smoking legislation which bans smoking in all federal
and federally-regulated buildings and public transportation,
strengthens rotational warnings, and prohibits cigarette advertising
and promotion. Although this legislation could be challenged in
court, the climate in Canada presently reduces the likelihood of
obtaining any lasting relief. In addition to federal action, local
governments, such as the City of Toronto, have adopted strict
smoking bans in the workplace.
The Canadian Tobacco Manufacturers Committee (CTMC) has
established a task force to address smoking bans in the workplace
through a number of means. As in the United Kingdom, CTMC is
advancing the view that ETS is a symptom of inadequate ventilation
in buildings. The Committee is also promoting mutual accommodation
as the best means of settling problems that exist between smokers
and non-smokers. Finally, CTMC is encouraging new scientific
research on ETS and the accumulation of political data to facilitate
effective responses to anti-smoking groups.
F. SVMMARY
Don Hoe1 summarized the first session by noting that
anti-smoking activities are occurring in all of the represented
areas. These activities are not only generated locally, but also
by international organizations such as the World Health Organiza-
tion, which has publicly stated that a causal link between ETS and
human disease has been conclusively establlshed.
II. INDUSTRY RESEARCH AND OBJECTIVES
A. EEC
Dr. Klus of Austria Tabakwerke AG reported at some length
about the Austrian Health Ministry's recent conference on ETS.
Twenty-one scientists attended. The Health Minister apparently
had no preconceived conclusions regarding ETS and, as a result,
objectively considered a broad spectrum of information.
Dr. Klus reported that several scientists were able to
successfully challenge the anti-smoking views expressed at the
conference. For example, Professor Adlkofer argued persuasively
that an appreciable ETS-related health risk was unlikely given the
presence of other environmental risks. Dr. Lehnert reportedly~0
refuted the opinion of Dr. Hanschler, who is the head of theGerman
Society on Maximum Threshold Limits in the Workplace, that ETS is~
objectionable at all levels. Dr. Wynder and Dr. Uberla specifically~~
addressed the epidemiologyof ETS, and all but one of the sclentists~
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PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL
ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT
present agreed that the cause of human disease could not be proved
by the epidemiological evidence.
The conference concluded with the finding that existing
science could neither prove nor disprove that any impairment of
health is caused by ETS. Although a fairly strong position on the
relationship of ETS to health effects in children was adopted, the
conference concluded that ETS problems in the home are best solved
by health education. The media's response to the conference was
generally good. Proceedings of the conference are expected to be
published by the Austrian Health Minister soon.
In addition to the Austrian conference, two other develop-
ments were discussed. First, at the German Indoor Air Symposium
held recently at Essen, the industry presented scientific
information on ETS, and the data appeared to be accepted favorably.
As a result, press reports of the Symposium may have a positive
effect in Germany. Second, Helmut Galsch reported that Philip
Morris has engaged laboratories in France, Germany and Switzerland
to assist the company with indoor air quality testing.
Following the EEC presentation, Professor Adlkofer pro-
vided the participants with his views, and presumably the views
of his colleagues, on the future direction of ETS research. Accord-
ing to Adlkofer, the existing science demands that the industry
recognize that possible health risks from ETS exist because those
risks cannot be disproved. As a result, Adlkofer advocates that
research be focused on determining the threshold level of adverse
effects from environmental tobacco smoke, and that fewer resources
be expended on epidemiological studies.
B. ~ITED KINGDOM
Andrew Nelmes outlined the UK strategy on ETS. That
strategy is made up of three components: (1) challenglngunfounded
reports linking ETS and human disease, (2) placing ETS in the proper
perspective with regard to overall air quality and (3)
disassociating the public's annoyance with ETS from alleged health
effects. By this strategy, TAC hopes (1) to create "marketable"
science, (2) to deflect criticism of ETS, and (3) to place the
industry in the most favorable position posslble. To help achieve
these goals and respond to the ISC's Fourth Report, the TAC produced
"The Clouded Issue", a publicatlon addressing the first two strategy~
points.
TAC is planning to publish additional literature on ETS.~~
"The Clouded Issue II" will advance the vlew that existing science~
PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL
ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT
is not dispositive of smoking and health issues. Also, Dr. Peter
Lee is preparing a publication addressing the effect of bias and
misclassification in ETS studies. This book is expected to be
completed in the third quarter of 1988. A third publication will
contain a review of the existing ETS literature. The UK industry
is also considering an extension of its "sick building survey."
Following the UK presentation, Professor Adlkofer ques-
tioned the use of the term "marketable science". Andrew Nelmes
defined this term as unflawed scientific studies whose objectives
are understandable to laymen and are thus useful in public relations
efforts. Professor Adlkofer responded that what Nelmes wanted was
good public relations material, not good science. Dr. Boyce stated
that the industry's primary, focus should remain on developing good
science, and that marketing the results is a secondary considera-
tion. Helmut Gaisch expressed his approval for the principle of
"marketable science", but felt that the term itself had improper
connotations. Adlkofer, who refused to retreat from his original
position, maintained that "real" and "basic" science is essential
if the industry is to prevail on the ETS issue.
C. CANA~
Mr. Dunn reported that the CTMC is working on a number of
fronts to address the ETS issue. CTMC is working with TI to develop
expert witnesses and review ETS literature. The Canadian industry
is also considering the formation of an organization like CIARwith
representatives from the tobacco industry, government, and
manufacturing and educational groups. The purpose of this
organization would be to provide a neutral forum for the devel-
opment of effective responses to indoor air pollution issues. In
response to a question from Dr. Adlkofer, the Canadian representa-
tive affirmed that the organization's focus would be on research.
D. UNITED STATES
Dr. Thomas Osdene of Phillp Morris reported on behalf
of the U.S. industry and outlined the activities of CIAR. .He noted
that although the tobacco industry had been active on ETS issues
in the past, primarily through TI, a change in focus was required.
As a result, Phillp Morris, Lorillard and R.J. Reynolds formed
CIAR to facilitate and support new research on indoor air quality
generally, not just ETS. Likely topics of CIAR-sponsored research
include air quality in airline cabins and in the workplace. In
addition to new research, CIAR oversees ongoing research that was
once the responsibillty of the ETS Advisory Group. CIAR may also
publish a scientific newsletter and/or peer-reviewed journal in
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order to facilitate the dissemination of information obtained.
Dr. Osdene stressed that CIAR's independence will be maintained by
distancing it from the Tobacco Institute and by encouraging
participation by persons outside the industry.
After discussing the role of CIAR, Dr. Osdene offered his
personal observations on the ETS issue. He reaffirmed the opinion
expressed earlier in the discussion that greater consideration
must be given to the role science will play in addressing public
attitudes toward ETS. Although he called for a closer relationship
between scientists and corporate affairs personnel, he disagreed
with the concept of "marketable science."
D. HONG KONG RESTAURANT SURVEY
Don Hoe1 called on Mary Ward of R.J. Reynolds to discuss
the results of a recent survey of fifty-one restaurants in Hong
Kong. The survey found that the levels of ETS were low, and the
results suggest that self-regulation is the best approach to the
ETS problem. The results received much news coverage and have
been submitted to Environment International for publication. Dr.
Judith Mackay, an anti-smoking activist in the Far East, publicly
levelled a variety of criticisms at the study, all of which proved
to be unfounded.
E. INTERNATIONAL TESTING OF AIRLINE CABIN AIR OUALITY
Don Hoe1 called on Mary Pottorff of Philip Morris to
discuss testing of cabin air quality. Ms. Pottorff reported that
data obtained aboard JAL flights were similar to those reported by
Dr. Oldaker of R.J. Reynolds in previously published papers. Ms.
Pottorff also noted that a paper prepared by Larry Holcomb, which
incorporated results from the JALand Lufthansa tests, was recently
published in the conference issue of Environmental Technolouv
Letters. A feature article on the test results is being planned,
and an editor of Freuuent Flyer Maaazine has expressed some in-
terest.
Ms. Pottorff also disclosed that discussions were
underway with SAS to conduct cabin air quality tests in September.
TNO Laboratory will conduct the tests for ETS and issue a report.
Plans are also being made for a toxicologist, perhaps of Scandi,
navian origin, to review the results and express them in layman's
terms. Through this undertaking, the industry hopes to show that
responsible airlines test cabin air quality before taking the
immediate and extreme action of banning smoking on commercial
flights.
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Disclosure of these proposed tests generated several
comments. Dr. Reif, for example, noted that airlines are often
reluctant to test because they know the cause of discomfort is low
humidity. The Airline Stewardesses Association, however, favors
studies of the low-humidity problem. Dr. Reif also insisted that
carbon monoxide be measured. Dr. Stub1 recommended that interna-
tional airline passengers associations which publish newsletters be
contacted in order to generate support and to obtain an outlet for
the results. Helmut Gaisch reiterated the need for published
results of unbiased studies that relate discomfort to non-ETS
factors. John Lyons of the TI stated that the U.S. Government
will soon undertake cabin air quality testing on non-smoking
flights, which should provide baseline information.
G. JAPAN
Dr. Ichinose reported that most of the ETS research in
Japan is being undertaken by JTI and the Smoking Research Founda-
tion. He also reported that the Kyoto Senbai Hospital is studying
the presence of nicotine and cotlnlne in body fluids as markers
for exposure to ETS. A representative of this group presented a
scientific paper at the Imperial College Conference on Indoor and
Ambient Air Quallty. (See "Simultaneous Nicotine and Cotinlne
Levels in Plasma and Urine as an Index of Environmental Smoke
Uptake" by Itani, Higashi and Shimizu). Rather than report on all
the research being undertaken presently in Japan, Dr. Ichinose
provided the group with a written summary of current research
projects.
H. SUMMARY
Don Hoe1 summarized this session by noting that the
reports demonstrated the need for "marketable research," which he
defined as "good science that is communicable to persons who will
benefit from it."
III. SCIENTIFIC INFORMATIONAND MEDIA OBJECTIVES AND
ACTIVITIES
Don Hoe1 introduced this session by reiterating that the
sgientific and publiq affairs elements of the industry must work
t~gether if the ETS issue is to be successfully addressed. Only
_~hrough cooperation can the industry adequately deal with changes
iln public attitude.
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A. UNITED STATES
John Lyons, of the Tobacco Institute, began his presenta-
tion by expressing his approval for the "marketable science"
concept. He then outlined the legislative, legal and public
relations endeavors of the TI. He described these programs as
being merely "holding actions" until science adequately counters
the results of the 1986 Surgeon General's Report. That report has
emboldened anti-smoking activist in the U.S. and has had a marked
effect on the public generally. Presently, 49% of American object
to ETS even if it has no effect on health.
With regard to ETS, the TI has adopted two primary
objectives: (1) to prevent further bans on cigarette smoking and
(2) to change adverse public attitudes toward smoking. To achieve
these goals, TI has adopted a number of strategies that can be
s11mmarized as follows:
(1)
To oppose all legislative, regulatory, judicial and
voluntary efforts that discriminate unfairly against
smokers;
(2)
To encourage scientific research and present research
results, while criticizing inferior research;
(3)
To limit superficial debates regarding ETS, espe-
cially in the press;
(4)
To increase public awareness of indoor air pollution
and the need for better ventilation;
(s)
To demonstrate that the estimated social costs
associated with smoking are incorrect;
(6) To increase awareness of the extremism and zealotry
employed by anti-smoking groups;
(7) To demonstrate that smokers expect and are entitled
to common courtesy from non-smokers;
(8) To promote smokers' rights measures;
(9)
To demonstrate publicly that overreaction to any
annoyance, including smoking, is anti-social; and
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(10)
To provide information on how to diffuse conflicts
between smokers and non-smokers.
These strategies are being implemented through a number of TI
programs and have met with varying degrees of success. Mr. Lyons
closed by focusing on the role of CIAR and the need for additional
research in the ETS area. He expressed the Institute's desire for
a closer relationship between science and public relations so that
"the public gets the message."
B. UNITED KINGDOM
According to Dr. Thornton of BAT, there is a shortage
of science on the ETS issue in the United Kingdom, and the science
that does exist is drawing a hostile response. ETS conferences
may help rectify this situation, but only if the proper "mix of
people" attend and present research. Dr. Thornton also called for
more toxicological research on ETS.
Dr. Thornton emphasized the importance of communication.
He called for a greater interface between scientific and public
relations personnel in order to effectively communicate with
government officials, scientists, and the general public. He also
suggested that the industry focus more resources on the media, in
order to influence public opinion. This may be achieved by one-
on-one meetings with journalists, particularly those journalists
who oppose smoking or are unfriendly toward the industry.
The second U.K. representative, Clive Turner of the TAC,
painted a bleak picture of public relations efforts on the ETS
issue in the United Kingdom. According to Turner, the science, as
it exists presently, is being overcome by the public's negative
"perceptions" of ETS. The media has fostered this perception
through selective news reporting that emphasizes the ISC Fourth
Report's ETS findings to the virtual exclusion of all other issues
covered by that report. Anti-smoking groups and the government,
which also selectively rely on portions of the ISC Fourth Report,
have published advertisements overstating the risks allegedly
associated with ETS exposure. The TAC has responded to this
situation with dozens of letters aimed at correcting misimpres-
sions created by selective reporting of the ISC report.
Mr. Turner also lamented the negative public perception
of the tobacco industry. The UK media is portraying the tobacco
industry as "a dirty business." At the same time, ASH, backed by
public opinion, is making strong claims against smoking. The media
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grants access to this group because it is perceived to hold the
"moral high ground."
TAC has employed a number of approaches in an attempt to
change public opinion on ETS. Although both the "courtesy" and
"freedom of choice" approaches have been unsuccessful, focusing on
the extremism of anti-smokers has met with some success.
Nevertheless, Turner reiterated the need for "communicable science,"
which, in response to Dr. Adlkofer, he defined as "saying in a
sentence what scientists write books about." Although Dr. Adlkofer
appeared to agree with Turner, he refused to endorse a situation
in which scientific research is guided by public relations needs.
In response to Turner|s remarks, Mr. Westcott recommended that
public relations should focus on policy makers as well as the
general public because policy makers often act contrary to public
opinion.
Dr. Adlkofer deviated from the agenda and discussed the
direction of ETS research. According to Adlkofer, analytlcal
breakthroughs are unlikely in the ETS area if research continues
on its present course. Conventional epidemiology has provided
few benefits to the industry. A focus is now needed on "modern
epidemiology" and human exposure studies, as well as further
exploration of the alleged mechanisms of effect. He also called
for the identification of a threshold level for risk. Dr. Adlkofer
indicated that this approach has already been adopted in Germany.
Dr. Adlkofer's suggestion created widespread disagreement
among the meeting's participants. Mr. Westcott stated that setting
a threshold is dangerous because it provides ~ p/~ proof of
causation for anti-smoking advocates. Mr. Rupp agreed, stating
that an acceptable threshold for ETS may nevertheless indict active
smoking. Rupp then engaged in a defense of existing scientific
undertakings. He noted that epidemiological evidence is necessary
if for no other reason than to effectively respond to anti-smoking
groups, which are still engaged in epidemiological research.
Furthermore, the industry has not yet adequately dealt with
Hirayama's study. Also, Rupp defended .studies monitoring air
quality because they allow the industry to counter anti-smoking
advocates' outrageously exaggerated figures with real-world data.
Rupp concluded by expressing the view that the industry should
continue to emphasize the lack of substantive proof of causation.
Mr. Westcott agreed, stating that the risk associated with ETS
exposure is statistically insignificant.
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Dr. Adlkofer agreed with Mr. Rupp that epidemiological
studies should go forward in order to counter arguments by anti-
smoking forces. He disagreed, however, with Rupp's views against
setting a threshold for ETS. According to Adlkofer, science cannot
propel the industry any further on the ETS issue unless it is able
to say that not one person has died from exposure to ETS.
Other views were also expressed on the threshold problem.
Dr. Boyce of BAT stated that the "no threshold" argument automati-
cally indicts active smoking. Dr. Stuhl called on the industry
to dispel the "no threshold/one molecule" theory andthe contention
that animal carcinogens are automatically human carcinogens. Dr.
Osdene suggested that a threshold level could be set, but that the
threshold not be quantified. At this point, Don Hoe1 concluded
the discussion generated by Dr. Adlkofer's comments.
D. CANADA
Mr. Dunn reported that 85-90% of Canadians, smokers and
non-smokers, are not against smoking regulation. As a result, the
CTMC has set the following priorities: (1) to underwrite the
Smokers' Freedom Society, a group that publicly represents smokers'
interests and is separate from the tobacco industry; (2) to develop
labor group defenses to smoking regulations; (3) to address
amendments to the Canadian Labor Code; (4) to provide informational
materials for private employers; and (5) to develop and strengthen
the "Indoor Air Quality Center."
E. JAPAN
Dr. Ichinose reported the Japanese view that both the
public and the medical profession must be better informed on ETS
research. In providing this information, the industry must be
inconspicuous. Otherwise, he argued, the public will suspect the
authenticity of the information. He recommended the use of third
parties to convey the industry's message. Dr. Ichinose also stated
that the first step toward success on the ETS issue is to improve
acceptance of smokers by non-smokers.
IV. FUTURE JOINT MEETINGS ON ETS
Don Hoe1 called for a discussion of whether joint meetings
should be held in the future. Dr. Osdene suggested that the joint
meetings be held less frequently, perhaps every two years, with
smaller groups of scientists meeting in the interim years. Mary
Ward expressed the opinion that future meetings could be beneficial,
but large numbers of participants inhibit meaningful discussion.
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She proposed that Don Hoe1 head a committee to develop a list of
relevant issues and recommend participants who could best address
a given issue in small group discussions. When Don Hoe1 suggested
that the NMAs decide who attends the meetings, Dr. Osdene expressed
concern that such groups should not set a binding course for the
NMAs and research.
The discussion then turned from possible means of improv-
ing future joint meetings to whether such meetings should be held
at a11. Dr. Adlkofer expressed his disappointment that no new
information had been presented at the meeting. Similarly, Dr.
Osdene stated that he was not convinced that future Joint meetings
would be beneficial. Dr. Green of R.J. Reynolds and John Rupp, on
the other hand, expressed the view that Joint meetings could play
a positive role in the development of the industry's ETS strategy.
Division in the industry weakens its response, but joint meetings
help foster a coordinated effort.
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