THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Tuesday, August 8, 1995 TAG: 9508080007
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A14 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 29 lines
I am finding it difficult to believe the nicotine pushers' (tobacco companies) latest promises about efforts to limit children's access to their products. David Kessler says, ``Someone who does not start smoking by age 19 is unlikely ever to smoke.''
If the nicotine industry were to carry through with its bold promises, it would be putting itself out of business. It needs to recruit 3,000 new smokers every day to make up for tobacco-related deaths and addicts who find recovery.
The FDA has now declared nicotine an addictive drug and increased the probability of stronger regulation. The nicotine cartels must hope to head off regulation by offering voluntary regulations to appease the people and the feds.
Regarding the recent two-page ad: Does anyone really believe Philip Morris wants the very best for our children's health?
VIRGINIA B. BEHNKEN
Virginia Beach, July 21, 1995 by CNB