The idea
Whilst I agree that non smokers should have a right to choose a non smoking environment, smokers and pubs should also have the right to choose otherwise.
Pubs should be able to apply for a licence for smoking, which would be reviewed similarly to other licences such as opening hours and entertainment etc.
The effect of the smoking ban is well known, with smaller, local pubs going out of business. This is pushing drinkers into large town centre pubs, contributing to the violence and disorder often seen in and around these pubs.
There is also increasing evidence for a link between higher rates of domestic violence and the smoking ban. Just Google this if you don’t believe it!
By allowing the licensing authorities to decide which pubs can have smoking areas it would be easier to control drinking areas and behaviour.
Similarly, where sole traders use their vehicle for work, they should be allowed to apply for an exemption to smoke in their vehicles.
An outright ban is undemocratic and unfair on those that do want to smoke. Non smokers can go to non smoking pubs, smokers can go to smoking areas in smoking pubs. Everyone happy?
Why is it important?
The effect of the smoking ban is well known, with smaller, local pubs going out of business. This is pushing drinkers into large town centre pubs, contributing to the violence and disorder often seen in and around these pubs.
There is also increasing evidence for a link between higher rates of domestic violence and the smoking ban. Just Google this if you don’t believe it!
By allowing the licensing authorities to decide which pubs can have smoking areas it would be easier to control drinking areas and behaviour.
Similarly, where sole traders use their vehicle for work, they should be allowed to apply for an exemption to smoke in their vehicles.
An outright ban is undemocratic and unfair on those that do want to smoke. Non smokers can go to non smoking pubs, smokers can go to smoking areas in smoking pubs. Everyone happy?