Pub garden smoking ban likely to be scrapped by No10 after backlash

Proposal under review

The proposed ban on smoking in pub gardens is on the verge of being dropped by Sir Keir Starmer, Trending In The News can reveal. Instead, smoking is only expected to be prohibited outside hospitals and schools.

Backlash leads to reconsideration

Downing Street is understood to be watering down the draconian anti-smoking plans after facing backlash from the public and businesses. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has called for a "national debate" on stubbing out smoking, while Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty has been advocating for a wider outdoor smoking ban.

Leaked documents and potential impact

In the summer, leaked government documents revealed plans to extend the smoking ban to outdoor areas of restaurants, pub gardens, and clubs. However, the hospitality sector warned that such a move would be detrimental to businesses, potentially leading to closures. The British Beer and Pub Association's analysis suggested that three pubs a week could close if the ban were implemented, resulting in 800 venues shutting down in the next five years.

Government's stance and future steps

The final legislation has yet to be fully approved by the Prime Minister and Health Secretary, but it is expected to be presented to parliament in the coming weeks. A Department for Health and Social Care spokesperson highlighted the health risks associated with smoking and the government's commitment to protecting children and non-smokers from second-hand smoke.

Additional measures and environmental impact

Alongside the potential smoking ban adjustments, disposable vapes are also being considered for a ban to address plastic waste concerns related to smoking. The ban was initially proposed to cover children's play areas and shisha lounges.

It is important to note that approximately 6.4 million people in the UK are smokers, and the debate around the right to ban smoking in outdoor spaces continues.