The idea of creating the world's first "safe" cigarette has pulled a 23-million-pound bid made by a leading tobacco giant.

Scientists at British American Tobacco revealed they were looking to slash some of the 4,000 potentially harmful chemicals found in cigarettes to bring down cancer rates, the Daily Express reported.

As many as 40 varieties of safer cigarette were being tested by researchers, who have also been concentrating their efforts on modifying leaf blend, the combustion process and developing new filter techniques.

Anti-smoking campaigners, however, opposed the scheme, saying it would still encourage smoking and pose health hazards. (ANI)