NO SMOKING DAY

Early day motion 938, tabled 5 March 2002 by Betty Williams (Labour). Signed by 104 members.

That this House agrees with the Chairman of British American Tobacco that people are better of avoiding tobacco; accepts the position of the pub and restaurant trade that non-smoking is the general norm and there should be increasing provision of facilities for non-smokers and the availability of clean air; recognises that this House has a responsibility to provide a good working environment for its honourable Members, officers and employees; notes that the Scottish Parliament is entirely smoke-free; acknowledges that almost three-quarters of smokers want to quit smoking but because tobacco is addictive, many smokers find it very difficult to stop; understands the importance of supporting smokers trying to stop, including the provision of smoke-free places that help smokers deal with temptation and craving; and believes that occasions such as No Smoking Day on 13th March are excellent opportunities to try such policies within the House.

Signatures by party: Labour 76, Liberal Democrat 16, Labour/Co-operative 10, Conservative 1, UUP 1.