Rebels set to impose total ban on smoking in pubs and clubs

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,17129-1977763,00.html

By David Charter, Chief Political Correspondent

A TOTAL ban on smoking in pubs and clubs seemed certain last night as
backbench Labour MPs prepared to put down an amendment to remove all
exemptions from the controversial Health Bill.
Downing Street insisted that it would not change the Bill or allow a free
vote despite a motion for a full ban signed by 101 MPs, including 69 from
Labour, more than sufficient to amend the Bill. But The Times understands
that whips will go easy on rebel Labour MPs who defy them and back a full
ban.

A government source said that Tony Blair signalled the move when he said in
an interview that he agreed with Sir Liam Donaldson, the Chief Medical
Officer, who favours a complete ban on smoking in enclosed public places.

This would bring England into line with Scotland, Northern Ireland and
Wales.

The Health Bill is due to finish its committee stage in the Commons today,
complete with the Government's plans to allow an opt-out to the proposed
smoking ban in membership clubs and pubs that do not serve food.

But rebels, led by Andrew MacKinlay, the Labour MP for Thurrock, are
expected to put down an amendment banning smoking in all enclosed public
spaces.

The opt-outs were inserted by John Reid in the drafting process against the
wishes of Patricia Hewitt, his successor as Health Secretary. The Health
Bill will return to the Commons for its report stage and third reading in
two weeks.