| Total smoking ban to be enforced in English Pubs |
|
|
|
Opposing the election manifesto which committed itself to a partial ban in pubs, there is an increasing likelihood of blanket ban being enforced against smoking in all pubs across England.
The earlier proposal charted by the former health secretary John Reid, which had suggested that smoking ban would be only restricted to pubs serving food in England, is likely be replaced by a more drastic enforcement. This comes in the wake of growing pressure from Cabinet ministers to enact a more stringent law.
Patricia Hewitt, the Health Secretary, is reportedly keen that the complete smoking ban be extended to all bars. Earlier, there was a suggestion from her to include "sealed smoking room” where, as long as food or beverages were not served, people could smoke. But, this idea was abandoned when its efficacy was questioned. The health issue of bar employees who would be passive smokers was also discussed.
It was taken into account that these laws enforced in Dublin and New York have proved to be successful. And also the fact that other states of United Kingdom including Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland were also following suit was increasing pressure on the government of England.
Though no decision has been approved categorically as yet, Mr Reid has reminded the government about the commitment made on its manifesto made during the elections. He also said made it clear that he was going to oppose the whittling down of the partial ban policy.
Health groups have however come out in support of the government. 'This step will be more effective than anything else the government could do to lessen the waste of life caused by smoking-related disease,' said Deborah Arnott, Action on Smoking and Health.
Posted
on : Mon, 10 Oct 2005 10:20 GMT | General News
By : Mike Lawson
|
| |
| Related |
|
|
|
