The UK smoking ban -

Like it or not, smoking will be banned in all public indoor spaces in the UK in July 2007. Different areas of the country will be affected at varying times

England - July 1, 2007

Scotland - March 2006

Wales - April 2, 2007

Northern Ireland - April 30, 2007

Where will smoking be banned?

Smoking in all indoor public places will be banned. Many places - such as cinemas and public transport - have rarely permitted smoking in recent years, and so it will be places like pubs, restaurants, nightclubs and private members' clubs that feel the biggest impact of the ban.

Where will you be able to smoke?

You'll still be allowed to light up outdoors, in the home or places considered to be 'homes', such as prisons, care homes and hotels.

Smoking could still be banned at certain outdoor locations that are 'substantially enclosed', such as football grounds and railway platforms. No decision has yet been made on smoking inside cars carrying passengers.

What will happen if I'm caught fag-in-hand?

If you're caught smoking in a banned area you could be fined £50.

You have a business / premises that are affected?

You, your staff, customers and visitors are not allowed to smoke within your premises or vehicles. This includes previously designated smoking rooms.

What are the penalties?

The manager or person in control of 'No Smoking Premises' could face a fixed penalty fine of £200 for either:

Allowing others to smoke in No Smoking Premises including vehicles
Failing to display warning notices in No Smoking Premises including vehicles
Refusing to pay or failing to pay may result in a prosecution and a fine of up to £2,500. Individuals could face a fixed penalty fine of £50 for:
Smoking in 'No Smoking Premises'
Refusing to pay or failing to pay may result in a prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000. Licensees could put their license at risk by not complying with the new law.

What should you do?

Businesses should:

Brief staff on your No Smoking policy

Clearly state your policy in writing and display it

Display No Smoking signs prominently, and at all entrances to premises.

Remove all ashtrays

Advise those who break the law to extinguish their cigarettes or leave

Refuse service to those who fail to comply If threatened seek the assistance of the police - do not put yourself in danger.

Where to get help!

Action on Smoking and Health (ASH)

Working to eliminate the harm caused by tobacco.

Giving Up Smoking

The NHSs online resource for all the advice, information and support you need to stop and stay stopped.

Tel: 0800 169 0 169

Quit

Aiming to save lives by helping smokers to stop. Tel: 0800 00 22 00