HC Deb 24 July 1980 vol 989 c360W
Mrs. Faith

asked the Secretary of State for Defence why, at the Marlboro British grand prix held at Brands Hatch from 11 to 13 July, a Royal Navy helicopter with a large Marlboro cigarette emblem painted on its door was used; and what is his policy on the Royal Navy being involved in cigarette advertising in this way.

Mr. Speed

"Marlboro Grand Prix World Championship Team" stickers were handed round liberally at Brands Hatch, and one was placed on a Royal Navy helicopter. Removing it without a special solvent might have damaged the paintwork. Advertising in such a way would be contrary to Ministry of Defence policy, which supports fully the Government's initiatives to discourage smoking.