PHILIP MORRIS CONCERNED ABOUT TEEN SMOKERS [11/26]

A previously-secret 1981 internal memo indicates that Philip Morris was concerned about the decrease in young smokers and its effect on cigarette sales.

The memo was addressed to the vice president of research and development at Philip Morris and spoke of the smoking habits of children as young as 12.

The writer expressed strong concern about the loss of potential smokers.

The memo stated: "today's teen- ager is tomorrow's potential regular customer. . . . Because of our high share of the market among the youngest smokers, Philip Morris will suffer more than the other companies from the decline in the number of teenage smokers."

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