Scots launch public smoking ban consultation
The Scottish Executive has launched a public consultation exercise to gauge opinion on public smoking restrictions.
Ministers insist that they will listen to the responses, though Jack McConnell has previously suggested he is against a ban on smoking in public.
Launching the consultation Deputy Health Minister Tom McCabe said that the Executive is committed to introducing more smoke free areas.
Speaking in Glasgow, Mr McCabe said: “As the single biggest cause of preventable premature death and ill-health in Scotland, smoking is an issue that affects us all. It is now estimated that 19,000 Scots die every year from smoking-related illnesses.
“Many Scots wish to breathe smoke-free air. While we do not wish to curb smokers’ personal choice to smoke, the health impacts of a smoky atmosphere must be taken into account.
That is why we committed to introducing more smoke free places in the Partnership Agreement, what remains to be decided is how this is done.
“Legislation is obviously an option, but all options will be considered.”
Hospitality groups are pushing for a continuation of the voluntary policy, whilst health groups are calling for legislation.
In addition to the public consultation the Executive has commissioned research looking at international attempts to provide more smoke free areas.
These will include studies of the smoking bans introduced in Ireland and New York.
Passive smoking has moved higher up the political agenda in recent weeks.
London mayoral candidates Ken Livingstone and Steve Norris have said they would consider introducing a public smoking ban in London if elected.
Last week the Tony Blair said that allowing local authorities the power to ban public smoking is being considered, noting: “There’s no doubt about the damage that smoking does and also I think for a lot of people who aren’t smokers they would prefer to be in an environment where there’s not smoking taking place”.
Smokers’ group Forest has urged smokers to speak out against a ban. They question the science behind claims of the dangers of second hand smoke and urge smokers to “fight for choice”.
If the Executive decides to proceed down the legislative route then they have the option of backing an existing Scottish National Party bill. In February MSP Stewart Maxwell introduced a bill to ban smoking in public places serving food.
Speaking on Monday, Mr Maxwell questioned the motives behind the consultation.
He said: “While any step towards banning smoking in public places should be welcomed, questions should be raised about why we need another public consultation.
“There have already been three consultations, including the one which was carried out for my Bill, and they have all come to the same conclusion, that the majority of the public support a ban.
“The health evidence about the dangers of passive smoking is clear and the Executive should stop talking and start to act to protect public health in Scotland.”
The British Medical Association and Cancer Research UK are strongly backing calls for a ban.
