§ Lady HermonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what(a) discussions he has had with and (b) advice he has received from the Chief Medical Officer in relation to the possible introduction of a ban on smoking in public places in Northern Ireland. [178702]
§ Mr. PearsonThe Chief Medical Officer and I have had a number of wide-ranging discussions about tobacco control, including a possible ban on smoking in public places in Northern Ireland. We agreed that it was important for us to contribute to the wider UK debate on possible smoking prohibitions/restrictions by assessing the level of public support here. We also agreed that officials should consider the implications of a ban, including those relating to enforcement.
889WAs Dr. Campbell made clear in her recent interview with the Belfast Telegraph, while she favours a ban, this would not, of itself, address the appalling toll of premature death and avoidable illness caused by smoking. The ongoing inter-agency work to implement the Tobacco Action Plan is of paramount importance in pursuing our long-term aim of a tobacco-free society.