§ Mr. Pavittasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will now take further action on the restriction of smoking in public places in the light of the evidence of practice in other countries sent to him by the hon. Member for Brent, South.
§ Mr. MoyleI am grateful to my hon. Friend for sending to me the results of a survey by Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) on smoking in public428W places in 20 European countries. I am at present considering steps which might lead to an increase in tobacco smoke-free areas in public places in this country as part of the development of the Government's strategy on smoking and health. Although some progress has been made in recent years in providing areas free from tobacco smoke, I believe public opinion among smokers and non-smokers alike would support further provision.
§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether, in view of the official report that smoking kills between one third and one half of smokers he will introduce legislation to make smoking illegal.