Scotland moves closer to becoming smoke free

Friday, 17 December 2004 12:00 AM

Scotland is one step closer to a smoking ban in public places this morning after the formal publication of the Smoking, Health and Social Care Bill.

Going further than the Westminster government, the Scottish Executive is seeking to emulate the example of Ireland and ban smoking completely in all enclosed public spaces, including pubs, bars and clubs.

There will be new offences of smoking, or permitting others to smoke in non-smoking premises, as well as a definition of those premises affected and the powers of enforcement officers.

Launching the bill - which the Executive described as "the most important piece of public health legislation in a generation" - was Health Minister Andy Kerr.

Mr Kerr stressed the terrible health consequences of smoking, saying: "Smoking is the biggest preventable cause of premature death in Scotland and wreaks a terrible havoc on families across the country.

"Every day 35 Scots die before their time because of smoking related diseases. This is our 35 a day habit and we have got to kick it.

"The case for reducing smoking and exposure to second hand smoke to improve health is indisputable.

"This the most important piece of public health legislation in a generation. And we will deliver for the sake of future generations who'll be able to breathe clean air where ever they go."

He also announced the remit and membership of the Smoke Free Areas Implementation Group, which will be advising the Executive on the practical implementation of the ban - as well as developing an international marketing campaign to promote Scotland as a healthy country.

It will be chaired by Mr Kerr, and includes representatives of the NHS, environmental health officers, local authorities and the licensed and restaurant trade.

A public information website on the proposed ban has also gone live today at www.smokefreescotland.com

The publication is particularly apt, as on Thursday the UK formally ratified the global Framework Convention on Tobacco Control - which commits governments to enacting strict tobacco control measures.

Commenting, director of ASH Deborah Arnott said: "We are delighted that the UK government has made this important commitment. Ratification of the treaty complements the tobacco control policies outlined in the 'Choosing Health' Public Health White Paper. However, what is required by the treaty and what is lacking in the white paper is an overall strategy, and the mechanisms for revising and updating the strategy once it is developed. If the government is to achieve its target of reducing smoking to 21 per cent by 2010 it will need to implement stronger measures including a ban on smoking in all public places and workplaces."

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