Date for smoking ban welcomed

From the archive, first published Thursday 7th Dec 2006.

NEWS that England's smoking ban will come into force on July 1 2007 has been welcomed by the North Yorkshire and York Primary Care Trust.

The PCT will now work with local authorities to raise awareness of the new rules among local businesses. There will also be support for people who want to give up smoking.

Rachel Johns, director of public health for the PCT, said: "The new law covers all workplaces that are wholly or substantially enclosed, so this includes offices, shops, factories, pubs, clubs and restaurants; even work vehicles will be covered if they are used by more than one person.

"Failure to comply with the legislation could end up with the company being fined."

She added: "This is a really important piece of legislation and will have a very positive effect on the general health of many people by limiting their exposure to harmful second-hand smoke.

Anyone wanting help to stop smoking can contact the North Yorkshire Stop Smoking Service on 0845 877 0025.