B&W Praises Florida Appeal

British American Tobacco PLC 22 May 2003 BROWN & WILLIAMSON TOBACCO PRAISES FLORIDA APPEALS COURT DECISION The following announcement was made yesterday, Wednesday 21st, by British American Tobacco's subsidiary, Brown & Williamson: LOUISVILLE, KY - Brown & Williamson Tobacco Corporation said it was gratified by a Florida appeals court ruling that threw out a $145 billion verdict in the Engle class action case. "We're pleased that the court agreed with our position that a smokers' class action lawsuit is unworkable, unmanageable and unconstitutional," said John Kiser, vice president and general counsel for the company. In announcing its decision in a 68-page opinion, Florida's Third District Court of Appeals ordered the class decertified. This decision is consistent with virtually all courts that have considered class action suits against tobacco companies. "The Engle case was one of the few remaining smokers' class actions against the industry," Kiser said. "This sweeping decision should finally close the door on smokers' class action litigation." Brown & Williamson Tobacco Corporation is the nation's third largest manufacturer and marketer of cigarettes. Based in Louisville, Ky., its major brands include KOOL, Pall Mall, Lucky Strike, Misty and Capri. Enquiries: Investor Relations: Tel: +44 (0)20 7845 1519 Press Office: Tel: +44 (0)20 7845 2888 This information is provided by RNS The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
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