Law to pave way for smoking ban

Legislation has been passed in Alderney paving the way for a future ban on smoking in public places in the island.

The enabling law was agreed at an Alderney States meeting and could take up to a year to come into force.

The proposed ban has attracted local objections with several pub landlords launching petitions against it.

Chairman of the Policy and Finance Committee, Richard Willmott, said a ban would protect workers from passive smoking and benefit tourism.

Guernsey, Herm and Jersey have already banned smoking in enclosed places.

Publicans have voiced concerns the ban would lead to dirtier streets and businesses would suffer.

A comprehensive debate is also expected to be held on whether to bring in the ban.