One million Canadian smokers win $12bn in compensation

Smokers in Quebec have been awarded more than £12.2bn in damages after the biggest class action lawsuit in Canadian history was brought against tobacco companies. Most of the compensation will be given to about 100,000 current and former smokers, who alleged that three of the world’s biggest brands did not adequately warn the public that cigarettes could cause cancer and other illnesses, even though the industry was aware of the dangers in the 1950s. Although JTI-Macdonald, Imperial Tobacco and Rothmans, Benson & Hedges have announced they intend to appeal the ruling, the court has ordered them to deposit $790m within 60 days.

It’s a great day for victims of tobacco who have been waiting for this moment for 17 years.

Anti-smoking lobby group

Andre Lesperance, one of the lawyers representing the smokers, described the ruling as a “great victory for society in general. These three companies lied to their customers and hurt their right to life." All three companies saw their share prices plunge following the verdict. Meanwhile, JTI-Macdonald, a subsidiary of Japan Tobacco Inc Group, added: "Since the 1950s, Canadians have had a very high awareness of the health risks of smoking. That awareness has been reinforced by the health warnings printed on every legal cigarette package for more than 40 years.”

We believe there are strong grounds for appeal and we will continue to defend our rights as a legal company.

mperial Tobacco Canada spokeswoman Tamara Gitto

Health Quebec smokers