Prisoners and tourists escape ban

Prisoners, people who stay in hostels and some holidaymakers will be able to smoke in public places despite the ban due to start in Jersey.

Smoking in enclosed public places will be banned in Jersey from next year with fines for those who flout the law.

The Health Minister Senator Stuart Syvret says various places where people stay, such as some hotel rooms, hostels and the local prison will be exempt.

Jersey is using Ireland, where there is already a ban in force, as a model.

The penalties for some of Jersey's anti-smoking laws went up this year.

The fine for smoking on public transport or for selling tobacco to anyone under 18 went up from £200 to a maximum of £2,000.