±±¾©Èü³µpk10

Some of the world's biggest tobacco companies are taking legal

advice in an attempt to exploit potential loopholes in international

efforts to restrict cigarette advertising and sponsorship.

Tobacco industry sources say manufacturers are analysing proposed

legislation around the world to see how they can delay its

implementation or circumvent its provisions by running alternative

promotional activity.

The UK government has already warned tobacco firms that it would clamp

down on industry attempts to undermine any legislation.

A number of firms are also understood to be lobbying the international

motorsport governing body, the FIA, in an effort to delay a global ban

on cigarette sponsorship due to come into force in 2006.

Sources believe that the FIA may be forced to reconsider if teams

struggle to secure new sponsors.