Cool reception for move to ban public smoking

Plans to ban smoking in public have been given a cool reception by the London councils that would enforce the law.

Only Islington gave immediate backing to the idea of a wider ban on people lighting up in public places such as pubs, restaurants and train stations.

Tony Blair paved the way for a smoking ban when he revealed the issue was already being studied by officials and could be a key part of the next Labour manifesto. But in a move designed to dispel a ballot-box backlash from Britain's 13million smokers, he said it would be up to local councils to introduce and enforce any restrictions.

Our survey found most councils sceptical about plans for them to bring in smoking controls, despite general support for moves to improve health. Most councils already enforce no-smoking arrangements in town hall offices. Enfield, Hammersmith and Fulham and Islington councils were most positive.

A spokeswoman for Conservativecontrolled Enfield said: "We support a ban on smoking in workplaces. We do not support a ban in pubs and restaurants, but we feel there should be nonsmoking areas."

Labour- run Hammersmith and Fulham also favoured a workplace ban but was undecided on wider restrictions.

In Islington the Liberal Democrat leadership said there was a "strong case" for banning smoking in enclosed places. Deputy council leader Bridget Fox said: "It is important that the Government gives the council resources to impose a smoking ban."

But Sir Robin Wales, chair of the Association of London Government - which represents the 33 boroughs - said it would be necessary to consult before introducing restrictions. He said: "It needs a lot of discussion but clearly lots of people are being killed by smoking."