Time's up for second-hand smoke as smoking ban gets closer in Wales
21 Jul 2006
A ban on smoking in enclosed public places took another step forward in Wales today as a consultation on the draft regulations was launched by Health Minister Dr Brian Gibbons.
The Health Bill has now cleared the final stages in Parliament leading the way for Wales to introduce a ban on smoking in enclosed public places and workplaces by Summer 2007. The draft regulations being launched for consultation cover issues such as definitions of "enclosed", proposed exemptions, signage requirements and enforcement arrangements.
Also being unveiled for the first time today is a new website providing information on the ban. The website - www.smokingbanwales.co.uk - explains the reasons for the legislation and outlines the action that businesses will need to take. It also includes detailed case studies of a range of businesses across Wales who have already introduced voluntary smoke free policies, including Java Bean Café in Glynneath, where the launch was held.
Messages of support from a number of high profile public figures including Shirley Bassey, Bryn Terfel, Gabby Logan and Nicole Cooke are also listed on the website along with helpful advice and links to smoking cessation services.
Dr Gibbons said, “Wales will soon join the growing list of countries where smoking is banned in all enclosed public places. Evidence from Ireland and Scotland, following their respective smoking bans, has been overwhelmingly positive, and many doubting voices have been silenced.
“Non-smokers should rejoice and even smokers will hopefully come to accept that the health dangers of second hand smoke are no longer socially acceptable. We’re not here to victimise smokers but to ensure those who desire a smoke-free environment in public places should be entitled to one.
“The Assembly was one of the first democratic institutions in the world to declare its intention to impose a nationwide smoking ban in enclosed public places and the launch of the consultation and website today is another big step forward in delivering on our promises.”
Chief Medical Officer for Wales, Dr Tony Jewell, added: “The damaging health effects of second-hand smoke in enclosed public places cannot be underestimated and the time has come to stub it out once and for all.
“Smoking related illnesses such as heart disease and lung cancer are some of Wales’ biggest killers, causing 6,000 premature deaths in Wales each year, and while I sympathise with smokers who find it hard to give up, this ban will hopefully encourage those who want to give up – some 70% of all smokers - to think again before lighting up.”
“Reducing levels of smoking – one of the key themes of Health Challenge Wales – will make a major contribution to our efforts to create a healthier Wales.”
