Tobacco plain packaging - mega claim beckons!

The Scotsman is today reporting that tobacco ‘giant’ Philip Morris is to launch a colossal compensation case in history against the UK and Scottish Governments over the decision to impose plain packaging on cigarettes.

Legal papers are expected to be presented today or early next week seeking between £9 billion and £11bn. It is said that other tobacco companies are expected to follow suit.

It is said that legal advice from former Advocate General of Scotland Lord Davidson of Glen Clova and retired judge Lord Hoffman says the policy breaches international law on image rights and the Human Rights Act.

MPs voted in March to introduce plain packaging for tobacco products, replacing famous labels with images of the health consequences of smoking.

The measure is due to be introduced in 2016. Powers over tobacco packaging are devolved to Holyrood but Scottish ministers have said they will follow Westminster’s lead on the issue.

Both governments have accepted arguments by campaigners and medical experts that packaging helps market tobacco to new, young smokers.

Both the UK and Scottish Governments said they had been expecting a legal challenge.