The tobacco companies argue that the scientific committee, chaired by Professor David Poswillo of Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, London, acted as a kangaroo court, relying on evidence from scientists known for their anti-smoking stance while rejecting negative evidence. They also claim that the committee failed to give the industry the chance to make its own case, and that Scoth failed to inform manufacturers that it would be looking at issues such as advertising. The decision to seek a judicial review marks a major break in the relationship between the tobacco industry and the Government. Over the past 25 years, representatives from both sides have met regularly to discuss new research and legislation. Scoth's report added to a growing body of work on passive smoking and related issues, and in that sense was not unheralded.
Ministers view the action for judicial review as no more than a publicity stunt.
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