The London Assembly has backed health campaigners’ calls for a total ban on smoking in public places.
The Assembly’s Health and Public Services Committee has submitted its opinion to the government’s consultation on smoking following a comprehensive investigation into the costs and benefits of a ban in England and Wales.
The Assembly joins the British Medical Association, Royal College of Nursing, the Chief Medical Officer, environmental health officers and trade unions in calling for a complete ban without exemptions.
The government’s proposals impose a ban on smoking in all public places but offer exemptions for pubs and drinking establishments that do not serve food.
Recent studies have shown that many of such exempted pubs are in depressed areas and that some pubs intend to drop their food menus in order to preserve their patrons’ right to smoke.
The Committee emphasised in its submission that the legislation should present a ‘level playing field’ in terms of understanding, interpreting and enforcing the law.
“Allowing pubs to opt out of the legislation would be a licence to kill,” said Jennette Arnold AM, head of the Assembly’s investigation.
“It would also discriminate against some workers, leaving them exposed to the dangers of second hand smoke. This bold step will have a greater impact on public health than any other measure imaginable.”
Arnold said that a complete ban on smoking will allow for parties to reach a ‘more workable and practical solution’.
