Letter in response to Times article on illicit tobacco

Sir

We were concerned to see a Times article promoting tobacco industry narratives (“Packs of choice at shops addicted to selling illegal cigarettes”, Sep 01). The article prominently features Will O’Reilly but fails to mention he is employed as a consultant by tobacco giant, Philip Morris. The tobacco industry has long used illicit trade concerns to undermine public health policy. A tactic now intensified to oppose the government’s landmark Tobacco and Vapes Bill which aims to phase out smoking for future generations. A recent academic review of tobacco industry data on illicit tobacco trade concluded that the primary purpose of industry-funded data on the illicit tobacco trade is to serve as a platform for the industry’s lobbying and public relations strategies.

While sales of illegal tobacco is undoubtedly an issue, official HMRC data shows it has reduced significantly over the last two decades. Between 2000-01 and 2023-24, the number of illicit cigarettes consumed in the UK declined by almost 90%. alongside a 68% decline in illicit hand-rolling tobacco. The best way to end the illicit trade in tobacco products for good is to support the 6 million smokers in the UK to quit and create a smokefree generation.

Hazel Cheeseman, Chief
Executive, Action on Smoking and Health