Norway's proposed smoking ban a 'timely reminder' for UK pubs
Norway is set to become the first country in the world to ban smoking from all indoor public places, including bars.
The bill proposed by the Norwegian government, which looks likely to be in force by early 2004, will concern licensees currently battling against mandatory smoking bans in British pubs.
The proposals come just weeks after smoking was banned in pubs - when food is being served - in the Irish Republic.
Oliver Griffiths, from the Atmosphere Improves Results (AIR) initiative, which is fighting for self-regulation on smoking for the pub trade, said: "The Norway news is a timely reminder for the UK industry to get its act together.
"The news will only increase the urgency with which health groups and others pursue a ban here - especially with the public places charter coming up for review in the new year."
Mr Griffiths says licensees must ensure their pubs are compliant with the smoking charter to avoid this type of legislation.
"For most this just requires them to put up a smoking policy sticker or sign outside the premises and a policy statement inside," he added.
"Licensees must also improve conditions for their workers through either upgrading their ventilation or initiating a smoking ban at the bar."
The Department of Health agreed to targets set by the industry's Charter Group, which state that 50 per cent of all pubs must be compliant with the charter by the end of this year.
Nick Bish, chairman of the group, said: "Questionnaires will be sent off to pub companies soon to find out what stage we are at. The figures will be validated through independent research.
"We've got a meeting with the Department of Health on December 10 to finalise how the research will be conducted."
Marsha Williams, spokeswoman for Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), said: "Now we know that passive smoking poses significant health risks no one should be involuntarily exposed to it, whether in an office or a pub.
"We'd like to see the approved code of practice, which would require publicans to protect staff from passive smoking, to be introduced by the government as soon as possible."
Several states and cities in the USA, Canada and Australia already have similar bans to the Norwegian proposals, which came about after heavy pressure from restaurant workers' unions.
Related articles:
UK fear as Irish smoking ban comes into force (14 November 2002)
UK fears as Norway looks at smoke ban (15 May 2002)
