Committee support for smoking ban

Scotland's smoking ban is due to come into force in 2006

Holyrood's health committee has given its support to a ban on smoking in public places in Scotland.

The committee said a ban would "impact positively" on public health and would be more effective than a voluntary approach.

The Smoking, Health and Social Care (Scotland) Bill is due to come into force by March 2006.

A ban is supported by health boards, charities and some unions, but opposed by the licensed trade.

In its report, the committee said it believed a ban would be in the best interests of public health.

It added: "The majority of members of the committee are of the view that a ban on smoking in enclosed public places would impact positively on public health and that a voluntary approach to tobacco control would not ensure the same outcome.

'Save lives'

"The majority of members, therefore, support the proposal contained in this part of the bill, believing that it will help to save lives."

Pub licensees and others who fail to enforce the law could face fines of up to £2,500.

Persistent smokers who defy a ban could be fined up to £1,000.

Committee convener Roseanna Cunningham said: "The majority of the committee is supportive of the smoking proposals.

"Although most of the public attention has focused on the smoking provisions, this bill contains many other significant proposals as well."

The bill, if passed, would also introduce free eye tests and dental check-ups.