Thursday, 23 November 2006, 10:43 GMT
Pubs could avoid smoking charges
Pub and restaurant owners in Jersey will not be prosecuted if people smoke on their premises if they can prove they tried to stop smokers lighting up.
A complete ban on smoking in enclosed spaces on the island comes into force in less than six weeks.
The ban - which is aimed at improving public health - will mean any smoker or business failing to observe the law could be fined up to £5,000.
Around 200 islanders die each year from smoking-related illnesses.
Steve Harvey from Public Health said: "Providing they [pubs and restaurant owners] can show they spoke to the individual and said 'excuse me, smoking by law is not allowed here, please put your cigarette out', then they would have taken all reasonable steps."
He added that smokers, on the other hand, could face prosecution.
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(21 Nov 06 |
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RELATED INTERNET LINKS
BBC Jersey - Smoking in public places
BBC iCan - Smoking Ban
States of Jersey Planning Department
States of Jersey
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