Smoking ban confirmed

Scottish Executive to press ahead with outright ban on smoking in public places

News, 10 November 2004

The Scottish Executive today announced its intention to outlaw smoking in public places. In a statement to the Scottish Parliament, First Minister Jack McConnell outlined plans for the ban which should be in place by spring 2006.

The proposals are:
-   To seek a comprehensive ban on smoking in all enclosed public places in Scotland
-   The legislation will be enforced by environmental health and local licensing officers
-   Licensees or employers who fail to enforce the law will face fines up to a maximum of £2,500
-   Licensees who persistently refuse to comply with the law will face the ultimate sanction of losing their liquor licence
-   To examine a system of issuing fixed penalty notices for those individuals who break the law. Persistent offenders will face a maximum fine of £1,000.

The legislation will be introduced through the forthcoming Health Service (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, which will be introduced before Christmas.

Mr McConnell said: "A comprehensive ban will be a clear signal that Scotland has changed. It will reduce smoking, save lives and help transform our national health. It will be easier to enforce and simpler to understand than other options that would fall short of that.

"We will take the steps to implement this decision together with those affected, not simply to impose it on those who are addicted, or worried about their business.

"I believe that there is no greater action we can take to improve the well-being of children and families in Scotland, for generations to come, than to secure this legislation and make Scotland's public places smoke free."