Tobacco Documents Online

Ogilv~T &~ Z~~ther Public Relations From: Maureen Delanty To: Fred Panzer Date1/31/85 RE: Use of Economic/Public Policy Consultants F 1901 L STREET, :V.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 20036-3540 (202) 466-7590 Memarandum The most important thing to remember in using the economists is that these people cannot address the health question. This means they should never testify on behalf of The Tobacco Institute or the manufacturers in any capacity. In the best possible situation, they should be representing a coalition of state business and labor interests. When this is not possible, any group of local businessmen would be satisfactory. Indeed, the economists can be most useful to the industry in shifting the debate on a piece of legislation away from the health argument (which TI cannot win) and toward a discussion of economics and public policy. This can only be accomplished, however, if the economists are representing some local interest other than the tobacco manufacturers. The point should also be made that these economists are not "silver bullets." They are meant to be used in addition to and along with other industry strategies ( to defeat a piece of legislation. As for timing -- depending on the complexity of what is being asked for -- four to six weeks advance notice is ideal for completing research, drafting testimony, and briefing the economist. However, something can almost always be prepared on shorter notice. In many situations, we can also help with identifying possible front groups in a local area. cc: Jim Savarese .TIMN 0137228