Judge Reinstates Suit Against Philip Morris

A federal judge cited new evidence as he revived a lawsuit brought by Philip Morris Cos. shareholders who alleged the company concealed evidence showing nicotine was addictive. The plaintiffs may now be able to prove the company’s public statements about the addictiveness were not made in good faith, said U.S. District Judge Michael B. Mukasey in New York. Newly introduced documents claiming that New York-based Philip Morris knew nicotine was addictive could prove to a jury that the company was aware its products were subject to Food and Drug Administration regulation, the judge said. He had tossed out the class-action lawsuit Aug. 22, 1995, on the grounds that the claims relied only on vaguely referenced charts and memos about the addictiveness of tobacco. Philip Morris said in a statement that it believes the allegations in the complaint have little or no legal support and will ultimately be dismissed. Philip Morris shares lost 75 cents to close at $113.50 on the NYSE.