Date: Mon, Jun 11, 2001 1:23 PM Subject: Public Comment on Cigarette and Smokeless Tobacco Reports June 11, 2001 Office of the Secretary Dear Sir: I am writing to comment on the "Cigarette and Smokeless Tobacco Reports." I strongly urge the FTC to continue issuing these reports. I have worked in public health for 25 years to reduce the toll of suffering and premature deaths caused by tobacco use. It has been extremely helpful to be able to educate the public about the huge amount of money the tobacco industry spends each year to promote their deadly product. Children and youth are especially interested in learning this information. It would be even more helpful to have the reports broken down by state. Most people believe that their community is unique and local and state data are particularly compelling. I also suggest that the information identify company specific expenditures and that the expenditures be broken down according to specific categories within promotional allowance and retail value added expenditures. I appreciate have these reports on an annual basis, but it would be even more helpful to have them published sooner. It is especially important for these reports to continue to be available for the public to access the facts while companies are attempting to change public opinion by portraying themselves as "good neighbors" and philanthropic businesses (in another huge ad campaign). Thank you for your consideration of my comments. Sincerely, Ann Watson |