The Smoking Ban

Eventually, England decided to put a ban on smoking in public places to encourage a more healthy community. On the 1st of July 2007, a smoking ban was put into effect which banned smoking from public places and in the workplace.

Why?

Whilst this ban made it more awkward for those who smoke, the aim of introducing the smoking ban was to create a healthier society; to benefit the greater population. This way, the risk of second-hand smoking was lessened to a great extent, and there was also a benefit to the environment.


What happens if I don’t follow the law?

There are penalties and fines if people choose not to adhere to the new rules of the smoking ban. These include:

  • A £50 penalty notice (£30 if paid within 15 days of the notice) or a fine decided by a court of a maximum of £200 if caught smoking in a place or vehicle that is smoke free
  • A £200 penalty notice (£150 if paid within 15 days of the notice) or a fine decided by a court of a maximum £1000 in the case of not displaying no smoking signs in an area that is smoke free
  • Up to a £2500 fine in the case of failing to prevent smoking in a smoke-free area

What’s next?

One day, could there be a complete ban on smoking? No one quite knows the answer just now, but there are possibilities of other bans being put into place to try and maintain a healthy society.

On the 16th of November 2011, the British Medical Association declared that they felt smoking should be banned in cars. Research found that smoking in a car increases the risks of taking in toxins 11 times more than in a smoking bar. Nothing has been officially decided, but this could be the future.

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