§ Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) if he will now require a reduction in the tar, nicotine and carbon monoxide yields of cigarettes;
(2) if he will make the third report of the independent scientific committee on smoking and health available to hon. Members.
§ Mr. John PattenThe third report of the independent scientific committee on smoking and health was published on 14 October. I have placed a copy of the report in the Library.
In its third report, the independent scientific committee makes a number of recommendations regarding the tar and carbon monoxide yields of cigarettes. The committee makes no specific recommendations regarding their nicotine yields.
In the light of the report, I am actively seeking to conclude a new voluntary agreement with the tobacco industry on tobacco product modification and research to follow the current agreement which is due to expire on 31 December 1983.