2008 smoke-ban plea

Licensees could have less than 12 months to draw up smoke ban plans because essential guidance may not be ready for months.

Industry bodies are looking for a minimum of 12 months extra time ​and are calling for a start date of summer 2008​ at the earliest.

BII chief executive John McNamara said: "We could be left with precious little time to respond if the guidance does not appear by this summer."​

In addition, the Government shocked the trade by announcing "on the spot" £200 fines for licensees ​and operators who fail to display no smoking signs and up to a maximum £1,000 if a case goes to court​.

Fines​ for breaches of the ban have escalated to a maximum of £2,500 for licensees​ and operators - compared to a maximum fine of just £200 in Scotland. ​

Customers​ caught smoking on premises face fines of just £50​.

ALMR chief executive Nick Bish added: Operators cannot make proper plans until they know the exact requirements ​ ALMR chief executive Nick Bish

"Operators cannot make proper plans until they know the exact requirements the guidance will spell out. ​

"We will be arguing very forcibly for more time and also discussing the draconian fines proposed by the Government, which arrived completely out of the blue."

The Federation of Licensed Victuallers Associations chief executive Tony Payne said: "I would caution against anyone wasting money on grandiose outside smoking stations until it becomes clear precisely what will be allowed."​

For more on surviving the smoke ban and what it means for your pub see this week's Morning Advertiser.

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