MPs are strongly encouraged by a leading cancer charity to vote for a blanket ban on smoking.
According to Macmillan Cancer Relief, such a ban could be a “single most effective thing MPs could do to cut lung cancer deaths”. The Health Bill returns to the House of Commons tomorrow.
MPs are strongly encouraged by a leading cancer charity to vote for a blanket ban on smoking.
According to Macmillan Cancer Relief, such a ban could be a “single most effective thing MPs could do to cut lung cancer deaths”. The Health Bill returns to the House of Commons tomorrow.
The Government planned to introduce a partial ban on smoking in English clubs and pubs. However, the proposal divided the Cabinet, causing squabble between ministers.
Tony Blair has acceded to allow a free vote. This means Labour members can vote as they choose. There options are: a total ban, an exemption for members’ clubs and a partial ban excluding clubs and pubs which do not serve food.
The House of Commons Health Select Committee, which opts for a total ban, has slammed a partial ban that would allow people smoking in clubs and pubs which do not serve food.
In December, the majority of respondents in a YouGov survey (71 per cent) stated they prefer a smoking ban in all workplaces - including restaurants and pubs.
Macmillan, which supplies expert care and support to people ill with cancer, stated that annualy there are over 37,000 new cases of lung cancer in the UK. They also emphasised that many more people die because of mouth, throat, neck and head cancers that result from smoking.
