Smoking ban may violate rights
2006-01-11 12:40
London - The British government's proposed ban on smoking in most public places could breach human rights, a parliamentary committee said on Wednesday.
Prime Minister Tony Blair has proposed outlawing smoking in most public places, except for pubs and clubs which do not serve food. The issue has split his cabinet and prompted an angry response from anti-smoking campaigners who are demanding an outright ban.
A committee of lawmakers said on Wednesday the partial ban could discriminate against bar staff in smoking venues. The committee also warned it would discriminate against drinkers in pubs in deprived areas, which are less likely to serve food and thus allow customers to continue smoking.
Parliament is set to debate the proposed ban in coming weeks. A group of Blair's own Labour Party lawmakers is calling for the Health Bill to be amended to include an outright ban.
- AP