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Smoke-free world? Cigarette maker in partnership with asthma inhaler firm
In a unique move, cigarette maker Philip Morris have entered a tender period with asthma inhaler firm Vectura shareholders
The move has sparked controversy with campaign groups sharply criticising tobacco giants for advocating themselves as part of the move to a smoke-free world.
Earlier this month, an open letter signed by 35 health charities and public health experts urged Vectura board members to reject a takeover bid.
They warned that Vectura may lose access to government grants due to a UN tobacco control treaty under which 180 countries agreed to curb the influence of the tobacco industry on health policy.
“Many university and hospital collaborations are likely to be rejected and participation in clinical trials blocked, disrupting crucial drug development – one of Vectura’s major business activities,” the signatories said.
“A takeover by PMI is therefore likely to cause significant disruption to Vectura’s operations and future profitability for its shareholders.”
Despite this Phillip Morris says they are committed to making their company “smoke free”