Overwhelming MSP support for Smoking Bill

03/05/05

The Scottish Parliament has approved the first stage of the Bill that seeks to improve public health by prohibiting smoking in enclosed public places in Scotland. MSPs voted in favour of the Smoking Health and Social Care (Scotland) Bill by a majority of 83 to 15 with three abstensions. The Bill now goes back to committee for more detailed scrutiny.
Health Minister Andy Kerr hailed the outcome as the start of a new era for improving Scotland's health.
He said:
"We all recognise that the case for reducing exposure to second-hand smoking is indisputable. Smoking is the single largest cause of preventable premature death in Scotland and passive smoking is responsible for many of these deaths. Lifting the smoke blanket from our pubs, clubs, cafes, restaurants and enclosed public spaces will save hundreds of lives every year."


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