Welsh ban "advocated by all parties

Welsh Assembly ministers have been elaborating on their plans for a smoke ban in all enclosed public spaces in the country from April 2 2007 in Cardiff.

The start-date is expected to be confirmed once the consultation on the details of the ban is completed next month.

First Minister Rhodri Morgan said: "The risks of second-hand smoke have been known for some time.

"This is why the National Assembly voted in 2003 to seek powers to ban smoking in enclosed public places. This is now becoming a reality."

"If all the legislation goes through Assembly procedures as expected Wales will have a ban on smoking in all enclosed public places from April 2 2007.

"This is a decision which has been supported by all political parties across the Assembly and has been strongly advocated by health spokespeople of all other parties."

Health Minister Dr Brian Gibbons said the assembly was planning to launch a new public awareness campaign to draw people's attention to the health risks associated with tobacco.

"Over the coming weeks you will see and hear television and radio adverts which re-emphasise the risks of second-hand smoke," he said.

"The adverts, which were filmed in smoky environments, aim to raise awareness of the harmful effects of second-hand smoke on non-smokers.

"They repeat the hard-hitting message that second-hand smoke can lead to heart disease, lung cancer and other serious respiratory conditions."

Chief medical officer for Wales Dr Tony Jewell said: "The effects of second-hand smoke should not be underestimated. It is estimated that introduction of a ban on smoking in public places and workplaces will avert over 400 deaths among non-smokers each year in Wales from lung cancer, CHD, stroke and respiratory disease.

"This makes it clear that second-hand smoke is a serious public health risk.

"By introducing this legislation we can reduce the effects of second-hand smoke and protect the public and workers from the harmful effects."