Smoking Ban

Answer: I strongly agree with my hon. Friend. I pay particular tribute to my hon. Friend the Minister with responsibility for public health and to my hon. Friend for their contribution. Researchers in Scotland have already found that going smoke-free has had an immediate and positive impact on the health of bar workers. We will see similar effects in England, and over time thousands of people’s lives will be saved, reinforcing the fact that smoke-free legislation will be the biggest step forward for public health in our generation.

This is an answer to the Oral question asked on Tuesday, 26 June 2007 by Jim Devine (Labour).

Question: I thank my right hon. Friend for that answer. I am sure that history will be kind not only to her but to her Front-Bench colleagues, and, dare I say it, to her Parliamentary Private Secretaries and formers PPSs, for this bold and imaginative move. Lives will be saved, lung function among staff will be improved, and it will be possible to enjoy lovely meals in a restaurant or pub. Does she agree that the initiative will be as successful in England as it has been in Scotland, Ireland and Wales?

Secondary information