Health authorities advised not to sue
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Health minister Tessa Jowell has warned health authorities not to sue tobacco companies for the costs of treating smokers' illnesses.
Mrs Jowell said she did not want to see health authorities tied up in costly legal action. The decision on whether to sue should be made by the Government, she insisted.
A group of health authorities led by Croydon in south London had earlier appeared ready to sue the tobacco industry, buoyed up by last week's historic pounds 225bn legal settlement in America. US tobacco companies have agreed to pay the money into a compensation fund to help cancer victims in return for legal immunity. It has been estimated that a similar group action against British tobacco firms could net pounds 25bn. Jeremy Laurance
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments