    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1998, Book I)]
    [January 15, 1998]
    [Pages 60-61]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks on Tobacco Marketing to Youth and an Exchange With Reporters
    January 15, 1998

        The President. Before I leave for New York, I want to say a few
    words about the disturbing news that a major tobacco company appears to
    have targeted children to encourage them to begin smoking. For 5 years,
    we've done everything in our power to protect our children from the
    dangers of tobacco. I've called for strong bipartisan legislation to
    reduce smoking, especially by young people. The documents that came to
    light today show more than ever why it is absolutely imperative that
    Congress take action now to get tobacco companies out of the business of
    marketing cigarettes to children. Reducing teen smoking has always been
    America's bottom line, and that's this administration's bottom line;
    now, it should become the industry's bottom line.
        I'm confident that every Member of Congress, without regard to
    party, who reviews these documents will resolve to make 1998 the year
    that we actually pass comprehensive legislation to protect our children
    and the public health.
        Thank you.

    Secretary of Labor Alexis M. Herman

        Q. Mr. President, did Alexis Herman take money to peddle influence
    in your administration?
        The President. I don't believe that for a minute.

    Situation in Iraq

        Q. What are you doing about Iraq to put teeth into the statement?

    [[Page 61]]

        The President. On Iraq, let me say that Mr. Butler is going back to Iraq with the strong support of the
    United Nations. I am very encouraged that even those who had been more
    sympathetic to Iraq saw through this totally unacceptable action. So now
    we have to see what happens. He ought to be given access. He's going
    back there; he's got the support of the U.N. We're going to watch this a
    day at a time and see what happens.
        Thank you.

    Note: The President spoke at 12:20 p.m. on the South Lawn at the White
    House prior to his departure for New York City.