Smoke protest planned for Labour conference
A bar owner heading an anti-smoke ban political party is planning a massive anti-ban protest at this month's Labour Party Conference in Manchester.
Hamish Howitt, head of UK FAGS
(Fight Against Government Suppression), also plans to raise £100,000 by selling his home to convert his Crazy Tots bar in Blackpool into his party HQ.
Howitt said he will drive a caravan plastered with anti-smoke ban banners to the conference, which runs from 24 to 28 September.
The ex-Labour Party member of 20 years claimed that 35 licensees have ordered anti-ban placards and widespread campaign support includes calls and emails from the USA and Ireland.
"It's a monumental fight, but I won't give up," vowed Howitt.
Banners cost £49 from luke@colourbanners.co.uk. For campaign details or £10 membership, call Hamish Howitt on 01253 404848 or see www.uk-fags.co.uk
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Your CommentsBill Gibson via email 14/09/2006"Well done Hamish..your methods may be unorthodox but you are prepared to publicly show your annoyance at Government interference in your business and the use of a legal product. It is time that the Pubcos woke up to the wider picture that any Smoking Ban will have on the Hospitality and Leisure Industry. Or are they hoping to make a killing by purchasing venues at rock bottom prices when the independent publican has been forced out of business?"
Robert Feal-Martinez via email 14/09/2006"Freedom to Choose welcomes any and all publicity which will highlight the consequences of a ban in the UK. Surely the Pubco's and Brewers should now realise, given the recent SLTA survey how damaging the Scotland band is, even before winter. What we need is support for our Judicial Review and I have to say that Hamish's money would be better spent and more effective helping to bankrole our Judicial Review which is reaching the point of application. Lets hope all the publicity given the Ban by Morning Advertiser will finally get through to the thousands of licensees out there that still think it is not happening."
