June 2007

Smoke Free From 1 July

In last month’s enews we reported that, as a result of provisions in the Health Act 2006, enclosed public places and workplaces have to be smoke free from Sunday 1 July 2007. This date applies to England only.

According to a survey published by the Department of Health a smoky atmosphere is the main reason for avoiding a pub or bar. The survey also showed a high level of support for smoke free legislation.

The results of the survey of 1,700 adults are interesting. 36% of people gave a smoke-filled atmosphere as the main deterrent for going to a bar or pub and 67% of people would rather spend the evening in a smoke free venue, than one where smoking is allowed. 91% (including 83% of smokers) now consider smoking in a non-smoking place unacceptable.

Public Health Minister, Caroline Flint, recently said:

"With only 50 days to go until England goes smokefree our aim is to ensure that everyone is aware of the new law, how it will affect them and what they need to do to prepare. Our snapshot survey shows that the majority of people know that smokefree legislation is coming, but almost half the population are not aware it comes into effect on 1 July.”

To make sure you are complying with the rules visit the Smokefree England link below.

Internet links:

Smokefree England advice
Press release