Government Plans to Ban Smoking in Outdoor Spaces

Government plans to ban smoking in some outdoor spaces, including pub gardens, outside restaurants, nightclubs, and open-air music venues, could face opposition from government officials at Downing Street.

Hospitality Industry Concerns

News of the proposed ban comes after hospitality industry bodies issued warnings that such a ban, initially proposed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer in August, could lead to job losses and venue closures across the country.

Policy Extension

The policy would be an extension of the government’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which aims to reduce the 80,000 smoking-related deaths a year by gradually increasing the age at which people can buy tobacco.

Disposable vapes are set to be banned in England next June, in an effort to combat environmental damage from single-use products and health issues, especially relating to their use by children.

Government Delays

Differing opinions amongst government officials regarding the extended ban have caused delays in the implementation of the bill.

Industry Response

UKHospitality has expressed concerns to Number 10 that hospitality venues, including nightclubs, hotels, cafes, restaurants, and pubs, could suffer economic harm due to the proposed restrictions. The British Beer and Pub Association also finds the plans deeply concerning and believes they could further impact the viability of community assets.

Opposition

Some government officials are reported to be hesitant about the ban, questioning whether outdoor smoking truly harms non-smokers due to a lack of evidence. Downing Street Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney and Leader of the House Lucy Powell are among those opposing the ban.

Prime Minister’s Stance

Prime Minister Keir Starmer remains steadfast in his support for the ban, citing the need to combat health risks associated with smoking and reduce the strain on the healthcare system.

Health Expert Support

Health experts, including Cancer Research UK’s chief executive Michelle Mitchell, back the Prime Minister’s efforts, emphasizing the indisputable health risks of tobacco and the need to act swiftly.

Industry Challenges

With concerns about the ban mounting, the already struggling UK hospitality industry faces further challenges. The British Beer and Pub Association warns of devastating impacts on pubs dealing with rising costs.

Closure Warning

The Night Time Industries Association recently issued a warning that all major UK nightclubs could face extinction by December 31, 2029, highlighting the urgent need for support.

[Via: Guardian]

Meena Sears is Mixmag’s Digital Intern, follow her on Instagram

FAQs

Q: What are the government’s plans regarding smoking in outdoor spaces?

A: The government is considering a ban on smoking in pub gardens, outdoor restaurants, nightclubs, and open-air music venues as part of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill.

Q: Why are hospitality industry bodies concerned about the ban?

A: The industry is worried about potential job losses and venue closures that could result from the proposed smoking ban.

Q: Who supports the smoking ban proposal?

A: Prime Minister Keir Starmer and health experts, such as Cancer Research UK’s Michelle Mitchell, are in favor of the ban to reduce smoking-related health issues.

Credit: mixmag.net