§ Mr. SteinbergTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what proposals he has to ban smoking in(a) the workplace and (b) all public places. [13605]
§ Jacqui SmithWe have no plans for legislation in these areas.
Following a consultation process the Health and Safety Commission has recommended the introduction of an Approved Code of Practice on smoking in the workplace. We are giving careful consideration to this proposal.
Control of smoking in public places is the responsibility of the management of such premises. The Public Places Charter, agreed with the hospitality industry, provides customers with clear information on the type of smoking policy operating in a particular establishment, and allows them to make an informed choice.