Ban on smoking at work proposed

On 20 June 2005 the Department of Health issued a consultation paper (Consultation on the Smokefree Elements of the Health Improvement and Protection Bill) which proposes legislation to make most enclosed public places and work places smoke-free. This consultation closes on 5 September.

Although the general principles are clear, there are significant practical difficulties to be resolved. For example the terms "smoke" and "enclosed space" must be defined. The consultation paper proposes the creation of regulation-making powers to allow the legislation to apply in places which may not fall strictly within the definition of "enclosed" but where there is a risk of harm from secondhand smoke, such as stadiums and even bus shelters. Places which prepare and serve food will be required to ban smoking. However the exact meaning of "prepare and serve food" is not yet clear.