Mike Hall MP

Labour Party | Weaver Vale

Smoke free Weaver Vale

The Labour Government achieved a big step towards a healthier population on 1 July 2007, when England went smoke free. Virtually all enclosed public places are now smoke free; this includes offices, warehouses, factories, pubs, cafes, train stations and leisure centres.

Surveys have shown that the public support the smoking ban, 78 per cent of people believe going smoke free will have a positive effect on health. The majority of smokers who wish to quit smoking also welcome the ban.

Smoking can have devastating consequences on a person’s health, as a smoker or passive-smoker. Over 100,000 people die from smoking each year. Second-hand smoke contains 4,000 toxic chemicals, 85 per cent of second-hand smoke cannot be detected by smell or sight. It increases the chances of getting lung and heart disease and has negative effects on children’s health. That is why the government has taken action to protect people from smoke in their workplace, pubs and cafés. Only by tackling the causes of illnesses will we be able to improve health inequalities and outcomes for all.

A smoke free country will improve the health of thousands of people, reduce the temptation to smoke and encourage smokers to quit.

A healthier workforce that is smoking less will be more productive and contribute to our strong economy. It is estimated that £2.7 billion annually will be saved by the smoking ban.

Mike Hall MP said,

“I fully support the ban on smoking in all confined public spaces. I watched my parents die from cancer. I believe the ban is necessary to protect people from the dangers of second hand smoke.

“It now means enclosed public spaces such as cafes, restaurants, public houses and work places are much nicer places to go to. The atmosphere has improved and you do not smell of smoke when you go home. In addition, you have not had to inhale second hand smoke. I also hope the ban will encourage more people to give up smoking.”