Pub trade raises smoke ban concerns
The British Beer and Pub Association has raised concerns about the implementation of the smoking ban.
In its submission to the Government's public consultation - which ends today - the BBPA says it has concerns over the start date, fine levels, lack of information and clear guidance and concern over proposals for no-smoking signs.
The trade body is calling for a comprehensive, Government-led information campaign to prepare the public for the smoking ban - and a swift decision on the implementation date.
It is also calling for fairness in the levels of fines handed out for breaching the ban.
It says the Government's current proposals to fine licensees up to £2,500 are "out proportion, and would be a huge amount for licensees to pay if someone had lit up on their premises.
It says a fine of £200 would be far more equitable.
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."
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