Dear Editor

At Cambridge & Huntingdon Health Authority (CHHA) we had been encouraged by earlier statements from the Government on its stance on tobacco. However, we are disappointed that the Government has now submitted to the sporting and tobacco lobby on the issue of tobacco sponsorship and Formula One racing. The adverse effect that this will have is on the European Union's bid to ban advertising and sponsorship in Europe, which is now in grave jeopardy.

Smoking is the largest cause of preventable death and illness in the UK and 599 Cambridge and Huntingdon residents die unnecessarily each year from tobacco related disease. Furthermore, preliminary results from the 1996 General Household Survey do show that smoking is on the increase, particularly among women. As a Health Authority we have a responsibility to promote public health.

Cigarette advertising does appear to increase children's awareness of smoking and encourages them to take up the habit. A Government study of world-wide advertising bans found that bans were allowed by significant falls in smoking of between four and nine percent. If the UK achieved the lower figure, 4,000 lives would be saved each year.

We can only conclude that the Government is more committed to protecting sport and employment then to preventing premature death and that health is not as high on its agenda as these other issues.

We are concerned that the Government's recent action will make it more difficult for the public, and especially young people, to take seriously any of its future statements regarding health. If you agree with our views, we ask that you wnte to Tessa Jowell, Minister for Pubic Health, Richmond House, 79 Whitehall, London, SW I 2NS or your local W.

Yours sincerely

DR RON ZlIMMERN

Director of Public Health