368 



Mr. Richard C. Wald 

 March 3, 1994 

 Page 2 



(ii) The segment included statements by Representative Mike Synar that the tobacco industry never 

 disclosed to consumers or the government the tobacco reconstitutton process or cigarette 

 ingredients. If the producers had researched these issues or asked us these questions, they 

 would have learned that cigarette manufacturers are required by law to supply a list of 

 cigarette ingredients aimually to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and have 

 done so for the last nine years. The reconstituted tobacco process has been in use for at least 

 30 years and is widely known. As indicated above, it was even discussed in the 1979, 1981 and 

 1989 Surgeon General's Reports and is routinely addressed in trade publications. Any 

 suggestion that the tobacco industry has been hiding this process from the Congress or the 

 American public is absolutely ridiculous. 



(iii) Perhaps the most shocking example of sensationalism in this segment was the unidentified 



former "Reynolds manager" whose appearance and voice were disguised ostensibly for his or 

 her protection. Without knowing who this individual is, there is simply no way for us or your 

 viewers to assess his or her level of knowledge, motivation or credibility or to determine 

 whether he or she was in fact even a Reynolds employee. 



It's a shame that once again ABC has sacrificed objective, thorough repotting on issues of significance 

 to our employees, customers and shareholders, and to the American public, in favor of entertainment 

 value, sensationalism and "hype." 



We can only hope that any plans you may have for continued coverage of this issue will reflect a 

 higher standard of objectivity and thoroughness. 



Very truly yours. 



VjOCUy^U). 



Wayne W. Juchatz 



WWJ:jt 



Enclosure 



cc: Mr. Walt Bogdanich (w/e) 

 Mr. Roone Arledge (w/e) 



