§ Mr. AmosTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what provisions are being made in all the offices and other places under his Department's control for the convenience and comfort of non-smokers; and if he will make a statement on his Department's policy for non-smokers.
§ Mr. RifkindAfter a full survey of staff views and extensive consultations, and with the support of staff interests my Department will in April this year introduce a policy restricting smoking in offices and other working areas. For a period of about six months thereafter, smoking will be permitted only in specially designated areas in staff restaurants and during specified periods in working rooms. Thereafter, restrictions will be further extended and smoking will be permitted only in areas specially designated for smoking. The need to allow smokers time to adjust to this policy has been recognised, and special counselling services will be arranged if there is sufficient demand for them.