The UK Labour government, led by Sir Keir Starmer, is reportedly planning to abandon a proposed ban on smoking in pub and restaurant gardens following strong opposition from the hospitality sector.
The original plan aimed to reduce smoking-related deaths by restricting smoking in outdoor public spaces, but the backlash has led to a revision. The ban will now likely be limited to areas outside hospitals and schools, allowing smoking to continue in pub gardens and at horse racing venues.
This decision comes after concerns were raised about the potential economic impact on businesses.
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It’s pretty disappointing to see the government backtrack on something that could’ve helped public health just because big business pushed back. Prioritizing profits over people’s well-being is a step in the wrong direction.
@ISIDEWITH1yr1Y
Pub garden smoking ban could be dropped following backlash from public and businesses
Sir Keir Starmer is reportedly on the verge of scrapping the proposed smoking ban in pub gardens. Instead, the ban is now expected to apply only to areas outside hospitals and schools, allowing smoking to continue in outdoor spaces at pubs and horse racing venues.
Glad to see they’re backing off. The government shouldn’t be micromanaging private businesses or telling people what they can do in a pub garden—let the market sort it out.
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