The appointment of Ruth Dempsey, a former senior director at tobacco giant Philip Morris International (PMI), to the UK Committee on Carcinogenicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment (CoC) has sparked widespread criticism. Dempsey, who worked with PMI for 28 years and continues to receive a pension and hold shares in the company, joined the committee in 2020. The CoC advises the government on health risks from chemicals, including those linked to tobacco.

Concerns have been raised over potential conflicts of interest, with critics pointing to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) treaty on tobacco control. The treaty, adopted by the UK, stresses the need to avoid undue influence from the tobacco industry, stating that there is an “irreconcilable conflict” between public health policies and the industry’s interests. Critics argue Dempsey’s ties to PMI undermine this principle.

Experts have weighed in, voicing their concerns. Sophie Braznell from the University of Bath warned that Dempsey’s appointment could jeopardise the CoC’s credibility, while Professor Martin McKee of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine said it risks eroding public trust. Luciano Ruggia of the Swiss Association for Tobacco Control described the decision as “shocking,” emphasising Dempsey’s past role in promoting PMI’s products, such as the IQOS heated tobacco device.

Despite the backlash, Dempsey insists her contributions are based on her extensive scientific expertise, not her industry background. She said she has always been open about her financial interests and has never shared confidential information with PMI. She assured that no CoC discussions have involved tobacco-related topics during her tenure.

The CoC has defended the decision, highlighting the rigorous selection process and citing “transparency and scrutiny” in managing potential conflicts of interest. Committee chair Professor David Harrison reiterated that all appointments are carefully vetted, particularly in sensitive cases like Dempsey’s.

Critics, however, remain unconvinced, questioning how such ties to Big Tobacco align with safeguarding public health. With PMI’s history of lobbying and its growing focus on heated tobacco products, many worry that Dempsey’s presence on the committee could inadvertently benefit the industry. Ruth Dempsey’s appointment has raised questions about the influence of industry ties on health policy decisions. The controversy highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining impartiality within advisory bodies shaping vital public health policies.

Source: The Guardian