HC Deb 07 November 2002 vol 392 cc690-1W
Dr. Tonge

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what plans he has to ban smoking in public places. [77808]

Ms Blears

I have been asked to reply.

The Government has no plans to ban smoking in public places. Instead, we want to work with businesses and others to achieve real change, highlighting and building on best practice. We have worked closely with the hospitality trade to develop a public places charter designed to provide customers with clear information on the type of smoking policy operating in a particular establishment and allow them to make an informed choice.

Specifically aimed at local action, the Department this year has provided project funding to local tobacco control alliances to tackle health inequalities and passive smoking. Local alliances are promoting smoke free areas in workplaces and public places. These projects will be evaluated and examples of good practice will be shared across the tobacco control alliance network.