Caroline Flint claims support for the smoke ban has never been higher

With just ten days to go until the English smoking ban, Smokefree England has released figures it says show support has never been higher.

According to a survey they carried out, eight out of ten people support the introduction of the new law.

The latest public opinion research, published by the government today also shows that 95 per cent of people are aware of the new law.

A smokefree England will see the single biggest improvement in public health for a generation​Public Health Minister Caroline, Flint

Public Health Minister Caroline, Flint said: "A smokefree England will see the single biggest improvement in public health for a generation. ​

"The scientific and medical evidence is clear - secondhand smoke is a killer. There is no safe level of exposure. This legislation means that thousands of lives will be saved and the health of everybody will be protected.

"The new law will protect people from the harm of secondhand smoke whether they are working, socialising or relaxing. Three quarters of people in England already choose not to smoke and almost three quarters of those who do smoke, say they want to give up. A smokefree England will help provide a supportive environment for those who want to quit.

"We have worked hard over the last seven months to ensure that everyone is aware of the new law, how it affects them and what they need to do. Support has been provided to businesses and individuals by the Department of Health and local councils and we are confident that England is ready to go smokefree on 1 July.

"I would like to thank everyone, from health and business groups to the leisure and hospitality industry, for their involvement and support in the Smokefree England campaign and for helping to make a smokefree England a reality."