Written question asked by Iris Robinson (Democratic Unionist Party) on Thursday, 6 November 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 12 November 2003. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Basildon (Labour) on Wednesday, 12 November 2003 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what his policy is on smoking in public houses in Northern Ireland. - Including figures.

Answer: Mrs. Iris Robinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what his policy is on smoking in public houses in Northern Ireland. [137811] Angela Smith: The policy on smoking in public houses in Northern Ireland is driven by the Public Places Charter, launched by the Federation of the Retail Licensed Trade in October 2000. To date, over 700 licensed premises have signed up to the Charter which aims to encourage venues to improve provision for non- smokers as well as overall air quality. Potential customers are able to make informed choice by identifying the smoking policies in public houses and restaurants through appropriate signage. The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety published a five year Tobacco Action Plan in July 2003. The Plan identifies 24 separate action points which are being taken forward by an Implementation Group. These include actions to promote the provision of smoke-free public places.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 137811; 413 c380W
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Northern Ireland Public places Public houses Passive smoking Smoking
Contains statistics: Yes
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk