Pubs are reeling from smoke ban as habits change

Jul 1 2009 by Jo O'Donnell, The Journal

THE ban was guaranteed to change the smoking industry for better or for worse when it was introduced two years ago. Jo O’Donnell has met with doctors and landlords to see how the rules have affected smoking – and drinking – habits across the North East

The smoking ban was introduced to protect workers from the effects of exposure to second-hand smoke, which health experts claim increases the risk of heart disease and lung cancer.

The Office for National Statistics announced this month that excessive smoking was a clear problem in the region, with 10% of over –16s smoking 20 or more a day. Nevertheless, a spokesperson for NHS Newcastle and North Tyneside Stop Smoking service said: “Anecdotally, more people are telling us their reason for quitting is because there is nowhere left for them to smoke at work or in pubs and restaurants.

“Stopping smoking is the single most important thing you can do to improve your health.”

Meanwhile, pro-smoking campaigner Derek Platten, 56, of Gosforth, Newcastle, opposes the total smoking ban and has set up his own political party called the We Can Smoke Party (WCSP).

He said: “The smoking ban is only right if the Government is prepared to ban the sale of tobacco products, but they don’t because they know they wouldn’t get away with it.”

For further information and advice about stopping smoking contact the NHS Newcastle and North Tyneside Stop Smoking Service on (0191) 219-5111

Ban backing

RESEARCH in the region shows 80% of people support the smoking ban.

The 2009 national YouGov survey of 13,000 people found that in the North East:

80% of people support the smoke-free law, with just 15% opposing.

90% of people say the law is good for the health of most workers.

82% of people say the law is good for their own health.