BBPA demands government action over smoking ban

Related tags Fine Smoking ban Government

Pubs need effective information and a start date for the smoking ban, says the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA).In its submission to the...

Pubs need effective information and a start date for the smoking ban, says the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA).

In its submission to the government consultation on smoking it the BBPA is questioning the government's current proposals for fines under the ban. It says proposals to fine licensees up to £2,500 are out proportion and it is calling for a fine of £200.

It is also asking the government to ensure that local authorities implement the legislation fairly and consistently. In particular, it is concerned that local councils may adopt different interpretations of planning rules for outside smoking shelters.

On signage the trade organisation has labelled requirements for "no smoking" signage on every entrance to a building as "excessive".

Mark Hastings, BBPA director of communications, said: "The smoking ban is major challenge for pub businesses - and as this is a clear case of 'the devil's in the detail', it is absolutely crucial for pubs that the government gets these regulations right.

"As pubs are spending considerable time and money preparing for the ban, they really need to know the start date that they are working towards. We face some costly investment decisions, and the present uncertainty over the date needs to be brought to an end.

"We are also concerned that the government has not yet come up with a fair system of fines. It is totally out of proportion that a licensee could face a £2,500 fine for failing to spot someone lighting up in their pub. We need a fair system, with fines proportionate to other offences."

BBPA submission