§ Tar Groupings of Cigarette Brands
- 1. The current definitions of the tar groups used to classify cigarette brands on sale in the UK were introduced in 1972. At that time over 76 per cent. of all UK cigarettes were in the middle tar groups (17–22 mgs), with lower tar brands accounting for around 5 per cent. The rest of the market was in higher tar cigarettes. By 1983, the middle tar proportion of the market had fallen to about 43 per cent., with lower tar brands holding about 56 per cent. High tar (29 mgs +) cigarettes had disappeared altogether from the UK market, with middle to high tar (23–28 mgs) brands accounting for less than 1 per cent.
- 2. In view of the marked change in structure of the market over the past decade, the industry has agreed at the request of the Government to adopt the followng revised tar groups with effect from 1 January 1985:
- Low Tar — Less than 10 mg
- Low to Middle Tar — 10 mg but less than 15 mg
- Middle Tar — 15 mg but less than 18 mg
- High Tar — 18 mg and above
- 3. From 1 January 1985 cigarette brands will, according to the voluntary agreement concerning "Tobacco products advertising and promotion, and health warnings" of January 1983, carry the new tar group designation, as will relevant cigarette brand advertising.
- 4. It is desirable that the consumer should not be confused by changes in definition or terminology. Accordingly, the Government and the industry have agreed upon the new tar grouping structure on the understanding that it should remain suitable for a substantial period of time which, on present indications, is not expected to be less than 10 years. (The current banding has been in use for 13 years).
§ It is intended that the final text of agreement will be available shortly.