Health Act heralds countdown to a
"smoke free England"


20 July 2006

The Health Bill completed its Parliamentary stages this week and received Royal Assent on 19 July to become the Health Act 2006. During the final Commons debate, Public Health Minister Caroline Flint confirmed that smoking in enclosed public places will end in the summer 2007.

The Bill was approved by the Commons, the day after the Public Health Minister published draft regulations on smoke-free premises and vehicles, a three month consultation on the details of the Bill.

Smoke-free legislation due to be introduced in England next summer will see virtually all enclosed public places and work places become completely smoke-free. These measures will protect everyone from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke when out at work or leisure, as well as providing smokers with an environment where it is easier to give up.

Caroline Flint said: "We have worked closely with stakeholders in drafting these regulations and continue to listen to the opinions of the public, stakeholders and the commercial sector in the countdown to going smoke-free next summer."