TCRG at the British American Tobacco 2025 AGM

Members of the Tobacco Control Research Group (TCRG) attended the 2025 AGM of British American Tobacco (BAT) held in London on Wednesday 16 April. Around 100 people attended the meeting to hear from BAT’s board members on its 2024 activities and plans for the future.

The AGM began with an address from Luc Jobin, Chairman of the Board, which referenced the company’s financial performance and its “culture and values”, as well as its commitment to “reducing the health impact of our business”.

Following the address, attendees had the chance to ask questions directly to the board. TCRG Deputy Director Phil Chamberlain questioned the board on both its tax activities and its failure to include graphic health warnings on nicotine pouches in Kenya, as well as its appointment of former Leader of the House of Commons Penny Mordaunt as a paid adviser.

There were further questions from the audience on the potential effect of the UK Tobacco and Vapes Bill on the company. Mr. Jobin suggested that regulation introduced by the bill would be difficult to enforce and would drive consumers to illicit products, both arguments often repeated by the tobacco industry. Interestingly, Mr. Jobin highlighted that BAT were “in dialogue” with policymakers and “engaging” with the bill.

To find out more, watch our video or read our blog.