'Thousands' protected by smoking legislation

02/07/2008

Thousands of workers have been protected by non-smoking legislation introduced 12 months ago, Cancer UK has claimed.

The charity has revealed at least 400,000 smokers have quit because of its introduction.

"Research shows that the smoke-free law is not only protecting workers from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke, but it is also encouraging smokers to quit," commented Sara Hiom, director of health information.

The ban outlaws smoking in virtually all enclosed public places and workplaces, and in all pubs, clubs, cafes and restaurants.

Department of Health data supports the charity's claims - it says the nation has quickly adapted to the ban and is backing it.

Forest, a pro-smoking pressure group, remains unconvinced. Its own report, Social Impact of Public Smoking Ban, claims smokers feel "enormous anger, resentment and frustration at the extent of the legislation".

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