§ Baroness Galeasked Her Majesty's Government:
What action they consider appropriate to ensure protection against passive smoking in public places. [HL1525]
§ Lord Hunt of Kings HeathWe consider that if we are to ensure protection against passive smoking in public places, we need action nationally and locally both to raise awareness of the risks associated with passive smoking and to increase the prevalence of smoke-free environments. The Department of Health will continue to encourage the development of smoke-free policies, working with employers and communities.
At a national level the Department of Health has, since 1998, worked with the hospitality industry to reduce the problem of exposure to passive smoking through the development of a public places charter. The charter commits signatories to increase the provision of facilities for non-smokers, improving ventilation and giving customers better information about the level of smoke-free facilities in an establishment. An independent evaluation of the charter is being commissioned and further work will be considered on the basis of the findings.
116WALocally, the department is funding tobacco control alliances across England to work in communities to raise awareness and to increase the number of smoke-free environments. Findings from these projects will inform future development of the department's work in this area.
The Department of Health will, in addition to action already under way, develop education and information resources to raise awareness and understanding of the risks associated with passive smoking.