Tobacco Smokers Encouraged to Flex Political Muscle

Source from:  Tobacco Reporter 03/29/2011

Philip Morris has launched a website calling on smokers to flex their political muscle over some government regulations, according to a story by Cameron Houston for The Age. The online campaign has started as tobacco manufacturers ramp up opposition to a government proposal for cigarettes to be sold in plain packaging from next year. PM's new website - ideservetobeheard.com.au - claims smokers are under constant attack from a 'nanny state' determined to raise taxes and ban smoking in public spaces, including beaches and city malls. "If you're tired of being singled out as a smoker, it's time to speak up because the more that smokers like you have a say, the more the government will have to listen," the website, authorized by PM, says. The site encourages disaffected smokers to contact their local member of parliament and provides a forum to share grievances. The web address is on cards inserted inside tobacco products manufactured by PM. Enditem