Firms: Smokers won’t quit over images

IRISH tobacco manufacturers have claimed graphic images on cigarette packets will not force smokers to quit the habit.

The Irish Tobacco Manufacturers’ Advisory Committee (ITMAC) made the claim as it emerged five tobacco firms plan to sue the US Food and Drug administration (FDA) over a new law that will force them to place graphic health warnings on cigarette packets.

The firms in question, RJ Reynolds Tobacco, Lorillard Tobacco, Commonwealth Brands, Liggett Group and Santa Fe Natural Tobacco argue the plan violates their constitutional right to free speech, as it requires firms to promote the government’s anti-smoking views.