Head of BAT Warns About Dangers of Smoking March 5, 2002
News Summary
The head of the second-largest cigarette maker in the world acknowledged in a recent newspaper interview that people are "better off" avoiding tobacco, the Associated Press reported March 1."I think there are health risks attached to smoking," said Martin Broughton, executive chairman of British American Tobacco (BAT). Broughton noted that he does not smoke and advised his children not to do so, either.
Later, in a statement from the company, Broughton said that the company had "long acknowledged the health risks of smoking." He also said that the newspaper article's contention that he doesn't smoke for health reasons was a "complete fabrication."
"I certainly did not add that my own decision was founded in the fear of contracting a smoking-related disease," said Broughton.
With regards to his children, Broughton said, "I said to them 'I would advise you not to smoke. But if you want to smoke, it is your affair. It is not good for you. You are better off not smoking."
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