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02/02/2006
Free vote for MPs on smoking ban
MPs will be allowed a free vote on proposals to introduce a smoking ban in England, including an option to introduce a total ban.
MPs will have three options to choose from when the vote takes place at the report stage of the Health Bill in the Commons later this month. One will ban smoking in all clubs, including private clubs, another will exclude private clubs from the ban and the final option will exclude both private clubs and pubs which do not serve food - the government's original proposed policy.
The move follows a split in the Cabinet over smoking policy, with ministers divided on the issue of a total smoking ban. It has been reported that Health Secretary Patricia Hewitt has indicated that she will vote in favour of a total smoking ban.
Commenting on the free vote, Public Health Minister Caroline Flint, said: "It is important that MPs have a clear choice to convey their views around this controversial issue.
"By drafting the new clause and amendment in this way, we will be offering a genuine choice to MPs, at the same time as ensuring the legislation is workable.
A second new clause, proposing increasing the age limit for purchasing tobacco from 16 to 18, has also been tabled to the Health Bill. The Health Secretary had launched a consultation on the issue in December.
The new clause would allow ministers to increase the age limit, depending on the outcome of the legislation, rather than wait for new legislation to pass through Parliament.
(KMcA)
MPs will have three options to choose from when the vote takes place at the report stage of the Health Bill in the Commons later this month. One will ban smoking in all clubs, including private clubs, another will exclude private clubs from the ban and the final option will exclude both private clubs and pubs which do not serve food - the government's original proposed policy.
The move follows a split in the Cabinet over smoking policy, with ministers divided on the issue of a total smoking ban. It has been reported that Health Secretary Patricia Hewitt has indicated that she will vote in favour of a total smoking ban.
Commenting on the free vote, Public Health Minister Caroline Flint, said: "It is important that MPs have a clear choice to convey their views around this controversial issue.
"By drafting the new clause and amendment in this way, we will be offering a genuine choice to MPs, at the same time as ensuring the legislation is workable.
A second new clause, proposing increasing the age limit for purchasing tobacco from 16 to 18, has also been tabled to the Health Bill. The Health Secretary had launched a consultation on the issue in December.
The new clause would allow ministers to increase the age limit, depending on the outcome of the legislation, rather than wait for new legislation to pass through Parliament.
(KMcA)
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