In tobacco veritas

In tobacco veritas
Let's set a match to the smoking ban before it completely destroys social life in Britain

Five months on from the imposition of the draconian ban on smoking in public places in England, its negative effects are becoming more and more apparent.

For the pub and entertainment business the ban, which followed similar ones in Scotland and Wales, has proved a disaster. Last week, Enterprise Inns, the UK's second-largest pub group, warned of "closures across the industry". It has put 96 of its 2,700 pubs up for sale.

And in Wales, where a ban on smoking was introduced in April, pubs have lost an estimated 20% of their trade.

Bingo halls and working men's clubs are also feeling the pinch. In Scotland, more than 20 bingo halls have already closed since the ban was introduced; scores more are under threat of closure across Britain. Mick McGlasham, an official with the Club and Institute Union (CIU), which runs 228 working men's clubs, predicts the ban will be "the last straw" that forces clubs to close.

But the smoking bans are wrong not just because they are putting people out of jobs and adversely affecting the economy. The main objection to the anti-smoking legislation is the way it is destroying social life in Britain.

Britain's estimated 12 million smokers have a choice: they go out to a pub or club and then have to stand outside, like social outcasts, on a cold and often wet pavement every time they fancy a smoke; or they simply stay at home. Unsurprisingly, millions are opting for the latter.

It's hard to escape the conclusion of Jemma Freeman, the managing director of cigar importers Hunters and Frankau and a keen cigar smoker herself, that the government does not really want us to meet in public places any more, and would much rather we all stayed home and vegetated in front of the television instead.

Smoking is, first and foremost, a social activity. When I moved to Hungary, in the mid-1990s, the custom was still for everyone to put their packets of cigarettes on the table in the bar/cafe so that people could help themselves to whatever they wanted to smoke. It was considered the height of bad manners not to offer your tobacco around. Offering a cigarette, or a light, was a great ice-breaker, and the way in which many a friendship was forged.

It is no coincidence that in the decades in Britain during which smoking was at its peak - the 1940s and 1950s, when around 80% of the population smoked - social cohesion was also at its strongest; and no coincidence either that the decline of smoking in Britain has coincided with the atomisation of our society.

As well as destroying social life, the smoking ban also marks, as the artist David Hockney has pointed out, the death of bohemia in Britain. Bohemia without smoke simply isn't bohemia. Those looking to escape this dull, sanitised, McDonald's-ised world for a while now have to head to Paris or Brussels: the French House, in Soho, will sadly no longer suffice.

The great tragedy about the ban is that a compromise solution, one that would have respected the rights of smokers and nonsmokers alike, could so easily have been found. Instead of following the example of Ireland, which imposed a blanket ban, why couldn't we have adopted the measures favoured by our neighbours on the continent? I recently spent a week in Belgium, where smoking is allowed in all pubs, cafes and bars, but not in enclosed public spaces, such as railway stations, or establishments that sell food, unless the proprietor can provide a separate, confined smoking area. It's a solution everyone I spoke to - smokers and nonsmokers - seemed perfectly happy with.

But instead of attempting to reach a compromise, the government instead opted for an all-encompassing ban more in line with Nazi Germany (which, unsurprisingly, was the first country in the world to introduce restrictions on smoking in public) than with a supposedly liberal, democratic European nation.

It's good to report, though, that the fightback against the ban has started. A new group that aims to campaign for exemptions from the ban for pubs, clubs and bars is being formed. Expect to hear a lot more about it in the new year.

This is an issue that concerns not just smokers but everyone who wants to live in a society where compromise rules, rather than intolerance.

Let us hope that by this time next year, common sense will rule again, and Britons will once more be able to light up their cigarettes, pipes and cigars in pubs and cafes without riot police the building being surrounding the building.

http://commentisfree.guardian.co.uk/neil_clark/2007/11/its_time_to_stub_out_the_smoki.html
http://www.neilclark66.blogspot.com/

Smoking ban is killing pubs, says landlord

Smoking ban is killing pubs, says landlord

A PUB landlord has sounded the death knell for the traditional English pub after his takings have dropped by almost 30 per cent since the smoking ban started.
David Church, who runs the Two Brewers on Olney High Street, said his takings have dipped since the cold weather began in the middle of October, after a summer that seemed relatively unaffected by the smoking ban.

"Trade dropped marginally in the summer after the smoking ban started," said David.

"But because the weather wasn't great and there wasn't much sport on I can't say whether this small drop was simply down the the smoking ban.

"Since the weather has turned cold, however, I have really noticed a big drop in takings. I think this is because smokers would rather stay at home to have a cigarette with their drink than come to the pub and have to sit out in the cold and the rain."

David, aged 47, is a non-smoker who has worked the pub industry since he was in his teens. He has been the landlord of the Two Brewers for 10 years and believes the smoking ban has signalled the end of the typical English country pub.

"It's normally really busy
here at the weekends, but just last Friday the whole bar was empty because everyone was out the back smoking. That means anyone walking past would look in and think it was really quiet and dull inside and could be put off from coming in.

"We are being pro-active about the ban by offering a really comfortable smoking area and adding more to our menu, along with special events like wine-tasting and comedy nights. But all of this means our regular custom will completely change.

"I wouldn't be surprised if a lot of pubs close after what appears to be a difficult winter ahead. The government has completely killed the English pub."
http://www.miltonkeynes.co.uk/news/Smoking-ban-is-killing-pubs.3535449.jp

Smoking ban threat to bingo hall

Smoking ban threat to bingo hall
FLEETWOOD'S long-established bingo hall is in danger of closing down – and the indoor smoking ban is being blamed.
The operators of the Top Ten Bingo in Poulton Road say the Government ban, which started on July 1, had an immediate effect – but things are getting worse with the colder weather.
The ban means smokers who once enjoyed a cigarette in the hall must now go out into the cold – and many customers just don't want to do it.
Manager Craig Lambert is optimistic he can turn things around, but he admits the bingo hall will be in danger of closing down if the trendcannot be halted.
He said that in November last year the hall was seeing 1,500 customers through the door a week - now it is down to an average of 900.
Mr Lambert said: "The Government has been very inflexible with the law. In some Continental countries, bar managers can pay a little extra to allow smoking at the bar, but not here.
"Smokers are being treated like lepers and many pubs will also feel the affects this winter."
After the original Fleetwood Pier set-up closed, the bingo hall still known as 'Barneys' became the town's only bingo operation.
Mr Lambert said that if the Top Ten did close, it would have a devastating social effect on its customers, many of whom are older, single ladies.
He said: "Bingo offers them a chance to get out and talk to people – without it many of them will become more isolated."
Housed in the former Victoria cinema, the bingo hall opened in 1967.
http://www.fleetwoodtoday.co.uk/fleetwood/Smoking-ban-threat-to-bingo.3534522.jp

Blackpool football fans fined

Blackpool football fans fined
Six Blackpool supporters who ignored the ban at the Bloomfield Road Stadium on Tuesday night were caught by undercover trading standars officers,whilst smoking during the game against Norwich.
The club has stated that the undercover operations will carry on and if needed they will suspend season tickets and introduce bans from the ground
http://www.blackpoolfc.premiumtv.co.uk

Smoking ban has stubbed out pub, say regulars

Smoking ban has stubbed out pub, say regulars
By Richard Woolley
REGULARS at a pub which is to close this week claim it has become the Dales' first victim of the smoking ban.
The Malt Shovel Inn at Wirksworth Moor is closing its doors at the weekend, and saddened punters say it will leave a void in the community.

Drinkers at the pub said numbers dropped noticeably after the smoking ban was introduced in July, and they fear this sent the pub into a downward spiral.

Martin Miller, a regular of 11 years, said: "The smoking ban has definitely been a large factor.

"Quite a lot of pub attendees tend to be smokers – I would say at the Malt Shovel it was about 30 to 40 per cent.

"When the ban came in the clientele reduced noticeably.

"The pub has a smoking shelter but at this time of year it is not particularly inviting.

"People now have no place to meet, the employees have no jobs and the politically correct can content themselves in victory."

Fellow punter Howard Knot, a pipe smoker of 40 years, said: "I used to go to the Malt Shovel five or six evenings a week just for the social end of it.

"I object very strongly to anybody dictating to me so after the
ban came in we stopped going altogether. Now we go one evening a week.

"It's hard enough for these businesses to make a living out of it before this. The Government can't say pubs are doing as well because they're not."

Licensee of the Malt Shovel, Barbara Brown, told the Mercury the smoking ban had been "a factor" in the closure but declined to comment further.

A spokesperson for the Beer and Pub Association said: "We are getting a mixed picture since the ban was introduced because, while some pubs are doing better, others are facing difficult trading conditions.

"Pubs that are more food based and have been able to invest in better smoking provision are thriving while some others are struggling, which is what we had always warned."
http://www.matlockmercury.co.uk/news/Smoking-ban-has-stubbed-out.3531697.jp

Smoking ban is a killer

Smoking ban is a killer
By Gazette reader

I AM a professional musician of some 30 years, playing in bars and clubs, and have been dismayed by the effect of the smoking ban. Whereas we were promised that the grateful customers would flock to premises providing a smoke-free environment, the reality has been that I have been playing in mostly empty bars, while the few customers left have been shivering outside in the rain and cold.

I have never seen such a collapse in trade, which happened immediately after the ban and has not improved since. This ill thought out law has destroyed social life in this country at a stoke, as people decide to stay at home, guzzling cheap supermarket alcohol and no doubt smoking in front of their children. I have no problem with restrictions on smoking in shops and other public places, but a total ban in pubs, forcing people to sit outside in the wet and freezing cold, while being denied adequate shelter is surely unreasonable.

Most people I know are upset and angry about this ban, and if it is not reversed it will lead to the demise of many premises which have previously been the hub of the community.

Peter F Cooke
http://www.gazetteseries.co.uk/news/letters/lettersroundup/display.var.1862325.0.0.php

Sales of food not benefiting from pub smoking ban

Sales of food not benefiting from pub smoking ban

Pubs serving food are not benefiting from the smoking ban, because people head home for a cigarette, according to a new report.
A report in The Publican found more than half of pub landlords noticed no change in food sales following the ban in July.

Debbie Reilly, the tenant at the Narrow Boat Inn in Weedon, said: "Food sales have stayed the same.

"The only thing we've noticed is that people don't stay in the bar after their meal to have a coffee and a cigarette, they go home, which is decreasing our coffee sales."

The survey found overall sales of food and drink were down in 21 per cent of pubs questioned.

Peter Yates, co-landlord of The Olde Sun in Nether Heyford, said beer sales were slightly down but food sales were the same.

He said: "It's not very good the way it's going. The smoking ban is not helping anyone."

The Britannia Inn in Bedford Road has seen an increase in food sales, but manager Mark Cook said: "Those places serving bar snacks aren't going up and up.

"It's just a better atmosphere to eat in a restaurant and we've seen an increase of around five to 10 per cent."
http://www.northamptonchron.co.uk/news/Sales-of-food-not-benefiting.3528089.jp

Smoking ban fails to lift food sales

Smoking ban fails to lift food sales
The smoking ban has failed to boost food sales for most pubs according to a recent report.

According to The Publican Food Report 2007, 54 per cent of pubs have seen no change in their food sales since the smoking ban was introduced on 1 July, compared to 33 per cent who said sales have increased.

One fifth of pubs however, found that their overall sales have fallen since the ban was implemented.

The report is the result of more than 300 pubs, which also found that the average customer spends £14.86 on dinner and drink, a penny down on 2006. This contrasts to The Good Pub Guide’s findings, which stated that the price of a pub meal had risen to £20.

John Porter, pub food editor of The Publican, said: “The Good Pub Guide is based on recommendations by readers, so tends to feature special occasion and destination venues, where prices are likely to be higher.

“The pubs we survey are more typical of the real pub market. The results show that as consumers tighten their belts, and after the smoking ban coincided with one of the worst summers ever recorded weather-wise, it’s a tough market out there.”

The Publican

Birmingham Mail readers call for an end to pub smoking ban

Birmingham Mail readers call for an end to pub smoking ban
By Emma Cullwick, Birmingham Mail
BIRMINGHAM Mail readers have voted in their hundreds to call on the Government to lift the controversial ban on smoking in public places.

The Mail reported last week how landlords at pubs and clubs across the city, including Hurst Street and Harborne, fear the ban is wiping Birmingham off the entertainment map.

They say trade is plummeting as smokers opt to smoke at home rather than having to do it in the cold outdoors since the ban was introduced on July 1.

In a special investigation, we revealed how landlords were uniting to lobby the Government to have a re-think on the legislation.

The Mail asked readers whether they believe the ban should be lifted.
Some 69 per cent of readers voted in favour of the ban being abolished and 31 per cent against.
http://icbirmingham.icnetwork.co.uk/



What can I do to amend the smoking ban?
In several parts of the country,people are running small scale petitions to lobby their MP.
Some areas are targetting Labour MP's who are worried about losing their seat at the next election-especially now the Tories are winning the battle of the polls.
Labour agreed exemptions to the smoking ban before the last election. Under pressure,they will amend this ban.
I suggest wording the petition to apeal to smokers/non smokers and business owners:

"We the undersigned ask for your support to amend the smoking ban.
We don't think it is safe or fair to make elderly/lone women and vulnerable members of society smoke on the street.
Whilst respecting non smokers we also don't think its fair to ask normal smokers to go outside to smoke-smoking is legal.
There should be a compromise that allows exemptions to the ban for small bars with no gardens-which would protect smokers, eliminate noise and litter problems on the street and protect pubs likely to suffer the most from the smoking ban.

We ask you to consider indoor and seperate smoking rooms within pubs that have modern air filtration systems.This would protect non smoking customers and staff."

Ten pubs and clubs in one constituancy,200 signatures each,contact the local press and you have a mini campaign-imagine 50 campaigns across the country-there are already several.

find your MP/MEP/Local councillors
http://www.writetothem.com/

Remember,alot of pub goers are not always internet users.

If you start a campaign,or are thinking of one,let me know and i will bulletin for help and support in your area.

What can I do to amend the smoking ban?

What can I do to amend the smoking ban?
In several parts of the country,people are running small scale petitions to lobby their MP.
Some areas are targetting Labour MP's who are worried about losing their seat at the next election-especially now the Tories are winning the battle of the polls.
Labour agreed exemptions to the smoking ban before the last election. Under pressure,they will amend this ban.
I suggest wording the petition to apeal to smokers/non smokers and business owners:

"We the undersigned ask for your support to amend the smoking ban.
We don't think it is safe or fair to make elderly/lone women and vulnerable members of society smoke on the street.
Whilst respecting non smokers we also don't think its fair to ask normal smokers to go outside to smoke-smoking is legal.
There should be a compromise that allows exemptions to the ban for small bars with no gardens-which would protect smokers, eliminate noise and litter problems on the street and protect pubs likely to suffer the most from the smoking ban.

We ask you to consider indoor and seperate smoking rooms within pubs that have modern air filtration systems.This would protect non smoking customers and staff."

Ten pubs and clubs in one constituancy,200 signatures each,contact the local press and you have a mini campaign-imagine 50 campaigns across the country-there are already several.

find your MP/MEP/Local councillors
http://www.writetothem.com/

Remember,alot of pub goers are not always internet users.

If you start a campaign,or are thinking of one,let me know and i will bulletin for help and support in your area.

Pub's trade is hit by smoking ban

Pub's trade is hit by smoking ban
By Liza-Jane Gillespie
A LANDLORD in Berkeley has warned that the five-month-old smoking ban is killing his business.

Charles Andrews, landlord of the Mariners' Arms in Berkeley, said people were being put off going outside to smoke because of the colder weather.

He said: "I think since the colder weather arrived it is having a big effect.

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"People are thinking I don't want to go to the pub because if I want to smoke I've got to go outside."

England became smoke-free at the start of July. The law was introduced to protect employees and outlawed smoking in virtually all enclosed public places including pubs, clubs, bars and restaurants.

Mr Andrews, who has owned the Mariners' Arms for four years, said that in the last month he has had to reduce his staffing costs by 20 per cent by reducing hours and not replacing employees who leave.

He said: "I'm extremely worried about the pub. I'm trying to cut costs. If I can't cut my costs enough the pub could be facing an uncertain future."

Mr Andrews said he is trying to attract new customers to his pub with food offers and by providing an outdoor shelter for smokers.

"I've been trying to keep a brave face and be optimistic.

I hoped that the ban might see some more people who don't smoke come to the pub but that hasn't happened.

"With the warmer weather we didn't see a massive change, but now with the colder weather there has been quite a drop in the last month," he added.

Dr Susan Hatton, 59, of Berkeley, who is a retired doctor, is a regular at the Mariners' Arms.

She said: "I think we are in grave danger of losing the pub. I am not against the ban completely. I don't know why we can't have most of the pub smoke free and then just have a smoking room.

"There is an elderly gentleman who smokes a pipe. He has a wife with Alzheimer's, who he cares for, and his one pleasure of the day is to have a pint and his pipe but now he has to go and stand outside in the cold."

The smoking ban has led to an increase in drink-spiking, according to the Roofie Foundation.

The smoking ban has led to an increase in drink-spiking, according to the Roofie Foundation.

The charity, which deals with drink spiking and date rape cases, said the motivation for drink spiking has been theft rather than sexual assault.

The Foundation has received between 200 and 300 calls regarding drink spiking thefts since the smoking ban came into effect on 1 July.

Previously it had not received any calls regarding drink-related thefts.

The ban has meant people are leaving drinks unattended while they go outside to smoke.

"I think one of the motivations behind this current phase of drink spiking is to incapacitate to enable robbery," Roofie's Graham Rhodes told the BBC.

"We are getting more and more reports of people who have been drink-spiked in pubs.

"They have thrown-up, they have been ill – in some cases passed out – and when they have woken up, their mobile phone is gone, credit cards, cash, anything they can get their hands on."
http://www.morningadvertiser.co.uk/news_detail.aspx?articleid=54146

Smoke ban has not boosted sales for most pubs

Pubs fighting for food share
26 November, 2007
By John Porter
Smoke ban has not boosted sales for most pubs, says The Publican Food Report 2007

The ban on smoking in UK pubs and bars has not delivered the predicted boom in people eating out at their local, according to exclusive new research for The Publican.

But the battle for a share of consumers’ dwindling disposable income means that a meal at the pub is better value than ever.

More than half of pubs, 54 per cent, said they had seen no change in their food sales since the smoking ban was introduced, compared to just 33 per cent who said food sales had increased. One fifth of pubs, 21 per cent, said their overall sales, including food and drink, have fallen since smokers were consigned to the great outdoors.

The survey of more than 300 pubs carried out for The Publican Food Report 2007 found that the average customer spend on food and drink at dinner is £14.86 – a penny down on the 2006 figure.

The cautious note sounded in The Food Report contrasts with a claim by the Good Pub Guide last month that the price of a pub meal had risen to £20 a time for two courses plus a glass of wine.

John Porter, Pub Food Editor of The Publican, said: “The Good Pub Guide is based on recommendations by readers, so tends to feature special occasion and destination venues, where prices are likely to be higher.

“The pubs we survey are far more typical of the ‘real’ pub market. The results show that as consumers tighten their belts, and after the smoking ban coincided with one of the worst summer ever recorded weather-wise, it’s a tough market out there.

“However, for customers’ that means that a meal at the pub is excellent value.”

The survey found that soup is the best selling pub starter, and meat dishes and pies the most popular main course. A traditional fruit pie or crumble is pub customers favourite dessert.

http://www.thepublican.com/story.asp?sectioncode=7&storycode=57827

Council urged to ban pub smoking shelter

Council urged to ban pub smoking shelter
By Echo Reporter
COUNCILLORS are being urged to take action over what is said to be a 'rudimentary' smoking shelter put up in the grounds of a historic listed Purbeck pub.

The Kings Arms in the High Street at Langton Matravers near Swanage has not had any district council approval to put up the wooden-framed plastic sheeting-roofed structure.

Now councillors on Purbeck's planning board will on Thursday be considering a report which urges the initiation of enforcement action on conservation grounds.

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The pub is on the south side of the main road running through the Purbeck village.

Councillors are to be told that the smoking shelter, which is in the south-west corner of the grounds, cannot be seen from the highway or from a nearby public footpath.

There is a 2m high stone wall running around the pub's eastern and southern boundaries.

The planning board is being recommended to approve a notice demanding the complete removal of the shelter within three months.

The pub, which is mainly in white-painted brickwork, was listed as grade two in late 1984 and is within the village's conservation area.

Councillors are being told that a complaint came in to the council in September and the pub's owner had been told that the smoking shelter had gone up in breach of planning control.

The report says: "The structure was a rudimentary shelter constructed with a wooden frame and plastic roof which it is understood had been erected in order to provide patrons with a smoking shelter following the coming into force of the Health Act 2006 and the Smokefree England regulations made thereunder."

The councillors are being told that despite informal discussions the pub's owner had not been able to come up with any solution which 'would satisfactorily address the concerns of the local planning authority in respect of the structure due to its unsympathetic appearance' in relation to the listed pub and its impact on that building.

Council officers claim that as it is now the shelter is 'incongruous' and 'detrimental to the visual amenity of the conservation area'.

They maintain that putting up such a shelter in the grounds of a pub needs planning permission.

And they argue that, while accepting the pub is used by residents and tourists, a smoking shelter could have been built in materials in sympathy with the stone boundary wall or the pub itself.
http://www.thisisdorset.net/display.var.1857090.0.council_urged_to_ban_pub_smoking_shelter.php

SALMOND VOICES SUPPORT FOR BINGO INDUSTRY IN ROW OVER TAX

SALMOND VOICES SUPPORT FOR BINGO INDUSTRY IN ROW OVER TAX
The first minister was drafted in to lift some of the gloom hanging over Scottish bingo halls yesterday as taxation and the effects of the smoking ban cast a dark cloud over the game.

Alex Salmond pledged his support to fight double taxation in the industry after calling a game of bingo at Fraserburgh.
Current taxation rules require the bingo industry to pay gross profits tax and VAT on participation fees. Other gaming industries are only subjected to gross profits tax.

Meeting players and staff at Carlton Bingo on Mid Street, Mr Salmond called for an end to the discrimination and a fair deal for bingo.

The Banff and Buchan MP said: "We need to bring an end to this taxation disparity between bingo and other gaming industries.

"I think the most devastating example is that cash bingo gets taxed at 27% whereas a casino gets taxed at 15%, and I don't understand how you can have a situation where a good, working-class innocent pastime like bingo playing gets taxed more than casinos, which clearly are more controversial and problematic.

"The disparity seems unfair and I will be pressing Alistair Darling to do something about it in the Budget. I want him to bring the taxation on bingo halls in line with other forms of entertainment."

Carlton Bingo operations director Brian King said the game in Scotland had faced tough times over the last 18 months since the smoking ban was introduced.

He added that double taxation was another major issue.

"We are calling for bingo to be on an equal footing with other gaming sectors and I am delighted that the first minister has lent his support to this issue," he said.

Nurse banned over mistakes

Nurse banned over mistakes
A NURSE who told a patient smoking was not bad for them has been banned from working for at least 18 months.

Jan Langham also made up instructions on a prescription and tried to feed a patient toast when they were not eating solids, the Nursing and Midwifery Council heard.

The errors were made at Clacton Hospital, Essex, in 2005 and 2006.

Langham, in her 60s, quit and moved to Turkey but the NMC still banned her “because of the serious nature of some of the allegations”.
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/article503091.ece

British pint is under threat, say city landlords

British pint is under threat, say city landlords
LANDLORDS from Peterborough pubs have echoed national concerns that beers sale are at their lowest since the 1930s.
The humble pint used to be the backbone of the local pub, it was what they were all about.

But seven million fewer pints per day are now being sold in Britain than in 1979 – the beer market's peak – a drop of 22 per cent.

Peterborough has a proud link with the traditional pint – and the city's annual real ale festival attracts thousands of people each summer who are keen to hear it for the beer.

The slump has been blamed on a number of factors, including changing tastes, a shift in drinking culture, health reasons and cheap supermarket booze deals.

Landlord at the Palmerston Arms, in Oundle Road, Woodston, Dave McLennan, agreed the number of pints being supped had fallen – but said tradition wouldn't fade that easily.

He said: "The way I look at it, going to the pub is part of everyday social life. We have a lot of regulars who have come in for years.

"But the term regular has changed, 20 years ago it meant someone who would come in five or six days a week, now it is more like two or three.

"Communities are being moved from town centres and into big shopping complexes. Shops, post offices and butchers are all suffering, and now it seems pubs are being hit too.

"There is a shift towards drinking wine, as it is a more consistent drink, you don't get the worry of having a 'bad pint'.

"And supermarkets sell cheaper alcohol. People may drink at home more, but they miss out on the pub atmosphere."

The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) added that the smoking ban has had an effect, with a seven per cent drop in pub beer sales this year alone.

The BBPA is calling for the Government to put a freeze on beer duty to prevent the price of a pint from spiralling above £3 – a move which is backedby the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra).

CAMRA Peterborough and District spokesman, Robert Barnes, added: "The smoking ban has had an impact, but hopefully things will get back to normal when people get used to it.

"A lot of village pubs are now relying on food sales to keep their businesses going, this is evidence that beer sales are falling."

Landlord of the Black Horse, in Nassington, near Oundle, David Hydon, said: "There are a number of issues which is affecting beer sales. I concentrate on food to keep the business going.

"Also a lot of people living in villages are commuters, so they don't tend to come to the pub during the week, but open a bottle of wine at home, which was unheard of a few years ago."

But John Tyler (63), who was enjoying a lunchtime pint in the Drapers Arms, in Cowgate, Peterborough said: "What's the enjoyment of drinking a warm can of beer at home.
http://www.peterboroughtoday.co.uk/news/British-pint-is-under-threat.3511250.jp

HAVE WE GIVEN UP ON GIVING UP?

HAVE WE GIVEN UP ON GIVING UP?
Be the first reader to comment on this story

The number of people giving up fags since the smoking ban was introduced is lower than expected, latest figures suggest.

Statistics reveal a record high number of people gave up smoking in Lincolnshire ahead of the ban on smoking in public places.

A total of 1,078 people sought NHS services to quit the habit between April and June this year.

But since then, around 60 fewer people than expected have given up each month.

Now health bosses are hoping the wintry weather will encourage more people to quit.

Gary Burroughs from Lincolnshire's NHS-funded Phoenix Stop Smoking service said: "I think we are still reaping the rewards of the ban.

"It's a gradual process and with it getting colder people are going to be less tempted to stand outside pubs or the workplace for a cigarette.

"I am expecting to see a higher number of quitters in our results for October to December than usual.

"You can notice it out of the window from our office.

"In the summer there were lots of people standing around smoking.

"But over the last few weeks there's been nobody."

Mr Burroughs said last month's change in the law preventing teenagers under the age of 18 from buying tobacco could only encourage non-smoking.

A new rule in the Highway Code stating that drivers smoking would be charged if it caused them to be distracted should also help.

Health improvement principal at Lincolnshire PCT, Brian Porter, said a record amount has been invested in the Phoenix service - £1m in the county - this financial year.

There are now 70 GP practices in the county offering the Phoenix service which employs 10 full-time staff.

"Summer is always the quietest time of year for us with the numbers peaking at new year and in March for No Smoking Day," he said.

"It is impossible to predict human behaviour that accurately and all we can do is make an estimate.

"But the high numbers of people quitting ahead of the smoking ban was definitely not a flash in the pan."

Duty manager at Lincoln's So Luxe bar, Rob Drake (25), said over the past few weeks it had become rarer to see people standing by the Brayford smoking.

"It is becoming less attractive to stand outside in the freezing cold," he added.
http://www.thisislincolnshire.co.uk/

Bingo chief calls for scrapping of VAT

Bingo chief calls for scrapping of VAT
By Lucy Warwick-Ching
November 22 2007 02:00

Bingo profits have gone up in smoke following the cigarette ban and Simon Hannah, chief executive of Riva Gaming, is warning that 100 bingo clubs could close within six months.

The industry - 600 clubs across the UK - is under heavy pressure and last month Rank warned on profits as customers stayed away because of the smoking ban. Top Ten Holdings produced more bad news for the industry yesterday and it is clear that Riva Gaming will also be hit.

"Against the background of the smoking ban, the reclassification of slot machines and the ever- increasing licensing costs imposed by the authorities, bingo also suffers from double taxation," said Mr Hannah.

"Where betting shops and casinos pay only 15 per cent gross profit tax, we must also pay 17.5 per cent VAT on our bingo income, putting us at a significant commercial disadvantage", he added.

Mr Hannah, alongside the rest of the bingo industry, wants VAT on bingo profits to be scrapped.

The Bingo Association is meeting this week with the government to discuss the possibilities for a restructuring of the tax.

"We would like a level playing field so we can compete with the bookmakers. Bingo is the only gaming sector to pay VAT as well as gross profit tax," said Mr Hannah.

In the 1960s, when bingo was at its most popular, there was more than 1,500 clubs. In 2006, that number was about 650. Since then 50 have closed with another 100 in jeopardy. "This is currently not an attractive space in which to operate," says Mark Brumby, analyst at Blue Oar Securities.

"However, the government - arguably - does not want the whole of the bingo industry to shut down - and it just might. Bingo provides the only social interaction for some elements of society and a legislative climb-down is not out of the question".
FT.com

French smokers, tobacco sellers protest ban on lighting up in cafes

French smokers, tobacco sellers protest ban on lighting up in cafes
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
PARIS - Thousands of fuming Frenchmen marched through the streets of Paris Wednesday.
But they weren't striking transportation workers or disgruntled civil servants. The protesters - some 10,000 of them - were mainly tobacco sellers protesting an upcoming Jan. 1 ban on smoking in French cafes.

Some 10,000 protesters wearing Day-Glo vests marched from the Montparnasse train station to the National Assembly to press for more flexibility in the anti-smoking measure.

The tobacco sellers want the rules modified to permit smoking in establishments with special ventilation systems.

The demonstration is one of a handful of protests this month against reforms by President Nicolas Sarkozy aimed at modernizing France. The smoking ban, however, was adopted before Sarkozy took office in May.

The tobacconists, joined by members of cigar clubs and teahouse owners, insist that changes they are seeking would respect the spirit of the decree.

Rene Le Pape, president of the Confederation of Tobacco Sellers, came away from a Tuesday meeting with Health Minister Roselyne Bachelot disappointed and angry, saying there was a "total blockage."

Tobacconists fear they will lose clients unable to have a cigarette with their coffee and will lose money on other products typically sold in "cafes tabacs" - cafes where cigarettes can be bought.

Those opposed to the ban also fear for the survival of cafes in rural areas where they are often the only community gathering spot.

French authorities have been trying to wean the country off cigarettes in increments for years.

A Feb. 1 ban on lighting up in workplaces, schools, airports, hospitals and other "closed and covered" public places like train stations forced France's smokers outdoors - but not out of cafes.

Birmingham pub bosses say smoking ban is killing business

Birmingham pub bosses say smoking ban is killing business
Nov 21 2007

Worried pub landlords today claimed Birmingham was at risk of being "wiped off" the entertainment map as revellers turn their backs on the city's pubs, clubs and bars. Some blame the demise on the smoking ban, others claim high rents are forcing businesses out. Birmingham Mail Chief Reporter EMMA CULLWICK investigates.

WHEN Debbie Pardoe converted her tanning salon into a bar in Birmingham's Gay Village five years ago, business boomed and she declared it the best decision she had ever made.

But now Debbie says trade at Equator, in Hurst Street, is diminishing and she's blaming it on the smoking ban introduced in England on July 1.

"The whole of the Gay Village is struggling," she said.

"The area is really quiet, it's like someone killed off Birmingham and wiped it off the map. We're starting to think it must be because of the smoking ban.

"I'm breaking even and paying my bills but who knows how bad it will get as the winter sets in."

She said the real impact of the smoking ban has not been reported because pubs and clubs fear painting an honest picture puts even more revellers off.

"The Government said that the ban would encourage more non-smokers to go out, but I haven't found that's the case at all," added Ms Pardoe, who is a non-smoker.

"The Government really needs to have a re-think on the ban, it's about time people stood up and started fighting against it."

She said the city council should offer financial help to bars facing big outlays to create outdoor areas for smokers.

Andy King, owner of The Fox, in the Gay Village's Lower Essex Street, added: "The ban has killed the atmosphere of many pubs. My beer garden could be packed out while there's nobody inside the pub.

"I'm not a smoker but I think we should be able to decide if we are a smoking or non-smoking pub, then it's down to the customers to decide where they go."

Pat Lilly, owner of Angels in Hurst Street, added: "Instead of going out, friends take it in turns to go around each other's houses where they won't be told that they can't smoke."

Martyn Gittins, a neighbourhood watch co-ordinator in Harborne, said the smoking ban was also hitting pubs along the village's High Street.

"I've being speaking to landlords in Harborne and many have expressed worries about how the smoking ban is hitting trade," he said.

"Four pubs have already closed in the area since the ban was introduced and it's only a matter of time before more follow. I'm not a smoker but I can see how the ban is having a detrimental effect. Bad laws generate bad outcomes."

Paul Hooper, the Department of Health's tobacco policy manager for the West Midlands, said: "I think to blame the new law for a lack of trade is a bit unfair but it could be true in some places.

"Smoking is particularly prevalent amongst the gay community, but several projects have been working with that community to try and help those who want to give up. The law's about protecting health."


Birmingham mail

Dangers of second hand smoke exaggerated, claims new study

Dangers of second hand smoke exaggerated, claims new study

November 21, 2007 11:17 IST
The perils associated with passive smoking have often been cited as reasons to seek a complete ban on smoking in public places, but a new study claims that the dangers of second hand smoke have been exaggerated.

In a new study, long time American anti-tobacco activist and physician Dr Michael Siegal has expressed grave concern over the 'obfuscation of facts' about second-hand smoke.

"The inaccuracies lie in overstating the effect of a single, transient exposure to second hand smoke-- a claim which cannot be validated by any scientific evidence," he says.

Siegal contends that only repeated exposure to second hand smoke is likely to increase the risk of a heart attack for a non-smoker.

"As far as the actual possibility of causing a heart attack is concerned, it is all the more unlikely. For that matter, even chronic exposure to second-hand smoke cannot cause a heart attack in a healthy non-smoker," he said.

Drawing parallels between eating a single fatty meal and being exposed to second hand smoke for 20-30 minutes, he said, "The 30 and 20 minute claims were based on studies that observed merely changes in the heart's functioning."

Siegal goes on to explain how all cardiac risks posed by exposure to second-hand smoke are in fact, reversible, that is a little while after the non-smoker is removed from the smoking environment, the heart resumes its prior state of functioning.

Siegal says that the argument that second-hand smoke "can raise a non-smoker's risk of suffering a fatal heart attack to that of a smoker" seems unfounded since only people with a history of severe coronary disease or asthma are likely to suffer any serious damage from such a transient exposure to second-hand smoke.

According to experts back home, however, whatever be the proven or non-proven basis of such arguments, smoking in public places should be avoided at any cost.

"No argument should deter me from not smoking in front of my family and co-workers," said Dr Ravi Kasliwal, senior cardiologist with the Indraprastha Apollo Hospital.

Growing evidence about the health risks of passive smoking has prompted many countries to ban smoking in public areas.
http://ia.rediff.com/news/2007/nov/21smoke.htm

Police target motorists who smoke

Police target motorists who smoke
• Police 'on look-out' for drivers who smoke
• £60 on-the-spot fine; other charges possible
• Smoking called 'distraction' in new Highway Code

Police are targeting motorists who smoke while driving to try to reduce accidents.

The acting deputy chief constable of Merseyside Police, Bernard Lawson, has told his officers that they will be expected to be 'on the look-out' for drivers who smoke.

Smoking is now mentioned in the recently revised version of the Highway Code as a dangerous distraction.

It is up to the discretion of police officers how the reference is implemented, according to the Department for Transport (DfT), but consequences could be serious.

A £60 on-the-spot fine is possible if motorists are caught, but if the driver was deemed to be not in proper control of his car, he could face prosecution for driving without due care and attention of for failing to control his vehicle.

The reference in the Highway Code was added after evidence showed that smoking at the wheel had contributed to crashes, the DfT said
http://www.whatcar.com/news-article.aspx?NA=229243

Pub closures in wake of smoking ban "inevitable", says Enterprise boss

Pub closures in wake of smoking ban "inevitable", says Enterprise boss
20 November, 2007
By Hamish Champ
Ted Tuppen warns that lower quality wet-led pubs will suffer

Enterprise Inns chief executive Ted Tuppen said while most of his group’s pubs were coping with the smoking ban, closures across the industry in the coming months were inevitable.

“The majority of our 7,700-plus estate is now well positioned to manage the risks and opportunities that the ban has created, although we envisage that the ban will lead to a number of pub closures across the industry, particularly amongst lower quality wet-led outlets,” he said.

Announcing Enterprise’s annual results today, which saw turnover down 5.3 per cent at £921m and pre-tax pre-exceptional profits down 4.7 per cent at £301m, Tuppen said the operator had worked closely with its licensees “to create effective smoking solutions, sometimes through investment and always with encouragement, advice and support”.

Average pub EBITDA had risen 6.2 per cent to £68,200. “Some pubs will have done really well, and others will have done badly,” Tuppen said.

Prompted by the ban, food sales across the Enterprise estate had risen by 13 per cent during the year, with such sales accounting “at least” 20 per cent of average pub turnover.

However Tuppen warned against chasing food sales for the sake of it.

“With standards of pub food constantly improving, there is a risk that the market place for 'value for money' food may become overcrowded, so our advice to licensees tends towards 'do it really well or not at all', focusing above all on the key strengths of each individual pub, and always trying to make sure that their pub is the best in each locality.

“The coming year will be difficult for some pubs and we remain cautious about the next six to nine months,” said Tuppen, who noted that 96 Enterprise pubs had been identified for sale as alternative use.

“However, we are confident of a positive outcome as the smoking ban becomes an accepted part of pub-going and licensees and customers alike enjoy the benefits of the more pleasant, healthier, smoke free regime.”

Issues such as the poor summer had hit pubs, and Tuppen paid tribute to those licensee who had “rolled up their sleeves and got on with sorting out and reopening their pubs”.

Meanwhile shaky consumer confidence was affecting sentiment going forward.


“Consumer confidence is a real issue going forward. It is difficult to tell how things like price increases will impact on consumer behaviour over the next year, but caution would seem to be the watchword,” he said.

Tuppen meanwhile called on supermarkets to play their part in responsible alcohol retailing.

“One must question the pricing policies of the major supermarkets and some other off trade outlets which sell alcohol, which is generally consumed in an unregulated environment, at very low prices.

“Not only do they, on occasion, sell alcohol at prices below cost but they have cheap alcohol at the heart of promotions policies, particularly in the run up to Christmas.

“When it comes to the important issue of tackling irresponsible drinking, it is up to all stakeholders to face up to their share of responsibility.”

Tuppen meanwhile said Enterprise’s discussions with the tax authorities concerning the possibility of becoming a real estate investment trust were “ongoing
http://www.thepublican.com/story.asp?sectioncode=7&storycode=57741&c=1

Howitt has premises licence revoked

Howitt has premises licence revoked
19 November, 2007

By James Wilmore

Blackpool smoke ban rebel has 21 days to appeal decision on Delboy's Sports Bar

Smoke ban rebel Hamish Howitt today had his premises licence revoked by Blackpool Council.

The council’s licensing panel revoked the licence on Howitt's Delboy's Sports Bar on the basis that three of the four licensing objectives had not been upheld. These were: prevention of crime and disorder; protection of children from harm, and protection of public safety.

A spokesperson for Blackpool Council added: “It was noted during the review that the premises had breaches of health and safety law and license conditions, including the lack of a doorman and lack of membership to Pubwatch.

“A proven underage sale was also brought to the attention of the panel.”


Howitt was earlier this month fined £500 and ordered to pay £2,000 costs and a £15 victim surcharge after pleading guilty to 12 offences of allowing smoking on his premises. He became the first licensee to be prosecuted for flouting the ban.

He is due back at Blackpool magistrates court on Wednesday after being issued with a summons for allegedly flouting the ban again.

The council spokesperson added: “Some weight was given to the failure to comply with the Health Act 2006, insofar it was a breach of the licensing objective to prevent crime and disorder.”

Howitt has 21 days to lodge an appeal with the magistrate's court, and, if appealed, the panel's decision will not come into effect unless the appeal is dismissed by the court.

He revealed last month that he is selling his bars, but will continue to fight the ban.
http://www.thepublican.com/story.asp?storycode=57734

Lemmy,motorhead,flouts ban

MOTORHEAD frontman LEMMY is facing a $100 (GBP50) fine after openly flouting a smoking ban at a concert in the U.K. The heavy metal legend - real name Ian Fraser Kilmister - was playing a gig at Hallam Arena in Sheffield, England on 6 November (07) when he lit a cigarette on stage, breaking the new law which came into force on 1 July (07), banning smoking in all enclosed public places. A British police spokesman says, "Other venues on the tour will be notified and appropriate action may be taken should any further incidents take place."
http://www.contactmusic.com/

Smoking ban and summer rain hits Enterprise profits

Smoking ban and summer rain hits Enterprise profits
Nov 19 2007
Solihull-based Enterprise Inns - the UK's second largest pubs group with more than 7,000 outlets - is tomorrow expected to unveil a five per cent fall in full-year profits following the impact of smoking bans and the poor summer weather.

Analysts are looking for pre-tax profits of around £300 million in the year to September 30.

After an initial "honeymoon" period of the ban with new customers venturing into pubs - reflected in a reasonably encouraging trading update in September - investors will be looking for indications on the current state of trading as winter approaches.

Blue Oar analyst Mark Brumby said: "November and the first frosts of the winter may test the resolve of customers,

particularly its smokers. Add to that the possibility that the consumer is slowing and trading may be about to get somewhat more challenging."

Another feature of results is likely to be any update on the group's potential plans to take on tax-efficient real estate investment trust (REIT) status and unlock cash for shareholders.

The recent credit crunch prompted it to postpone plans to raise £750 million of additional debt by the end of 2007, although the group has continued with its share buy-back programme.

Redditch-based car parts and bicycle retailer Halfords is well set for strong first-half results on Thursday after a bullish trading update at the beginning of October.

The retailer, which sells one in three bikes in the UK, enjoyed like-for-like sales growth of 5.5 per cent in the six months to September 28, at the top end of market expectations.

Halfords, which has its roots in Birmingham, is one of the UK's biggest non-food retailers with 433 stores - and one of the better bets amid more challenging times for the retail sector, according to Charles Stanley analyst Sam Hart.

Mr Hart, who predicts pre-tax profits eight per cent higher at £47 million for Halfords, said: "Halfords is amongst the most defensive UK retailers, given its exposure to the non-discretionary car maintenance market and a relatively low transaction value of around £21."

Halford also looks hard-done by with a 15 per cent fall in its share price since July as demand for its revamped Apollo and Carrera bicycles and in-car equipment such as SatNavs and MP3 players continues to buoy the group, Mr Hart said.

The firm may also choose to update on its three trial stores in the Czech Republic, and signal intentions over further expansion plans in Eastern Europe.

Meanwhile, Scottish & Newcastle's trading update tomorrowwill be overshadowed by the increasingly bitter pursuit of the business by European duo Carlsberg and Heineken.

The brewer, parent of Hereford-based Bulmers, accused the pair of trying to buy the business "on the cheap" as it rejected an improved £7.3 billion takeover proposal last week - a move branded "ill-informed and intransigent" by the would-be buyers.

Edinburgh-based Scottish & Newcastle, which also makes Kronenbourg 1664 and John Smith's, faces being broken up if the proposed takeover goes ahead.
http://icbirmingham.icnetwork.co.uk/

SMOKING BAN

SMOKING BAN
Back in September I completed a 50-mile hike in Shropshire known as Wild Edric's Way, carrying upwards of three stone in my rucksack.

Each evening I pitched my tent on a campsite on the outskirts of each town and village I'd arrived at that day, and after a wash and brush-up, plus a change of clothes, I headed for the nearest real ale pub to quench my thirst.

As usual on these solo expeditions, I set my stall out on the pub table, consisting of hiking diary, map, and postcards to write to relatives and friends.

I have been doing this for 35 years. This year, due to the smoking ban, I had to venture outside for a cigarette with my pint, returning later, chilled, and with my train of thought for writing totally out of the window.

Apart from this infringement of my freedom of choice, I had to leave all my personal belongings on the table; but nothing was stolen.

I remain, therefore, totally opposed to the ban. A lot of the pubs were empty, some devoid of atmosphere, as most of the locals were outside under various shelters. Their tourist season was coming to an end, but their local had been nigh on taken from them. This act is destroying an English institution.

L. EDMONDS
Derby Road, Stapleford
This is nottingham

Smokers face outdoor ban

Smokers face outdoor ban
Brian Lashley
PUB landlords could be prosecuted for allowing customers to smoke OUTSIDE their bars.

Police want to cut down on the large groups of drinkers who gather on pavements next to pubs and clubs after they were banned from lighting up inside.

Officers say the smokers can pose an `environmental hazard' by blocking the pavement, creating too much noise and increasing the potential for trouble.

They suggest landlords allow no more than 15 people to smoke outside their premises at any one time. The latest anti-smoking drive comes four months after a nationwide ban on anyone lighting up inside public buildings and work places.

But landlords say the new proposal would be impossible to enforce. One bar owner said it was `absolutely ludicrous'.

Any pub which is reported for creating an environmental hazard can be inspected by council officials and face prosecution if the landlord fails to act.

Staff at Night And Day on Oldham Street, Manchester, have placed notices on the door warning that only 10 people are allowed to stand outside and smoke at a time.

It is understood the bar received a visit by environmental health officers following complaints from local residents. However, the council said it had no record of any contact with the bar. Police raised the issue of smoking outside bars at a stormy meeting with the Manchester Pub and Club Network (MPCN) - which represents more than 500 landlords.

Sgt Gareth Parkin, from the City Safe team, said: "We are working with pubs, clubs and bars to offer information and advice about crime prevention and safety. We want to come up with ideas for how best to manage crowds who gather outside pubs and clubs to smoke. Our aim is to assist the licensees."

Phil Burke, of the MPCN, acknowledged that pub landlords would have to address the problem. But he said many were opposed to yet more regulations.

He said: "When the idea to limit smokers outside to about 15 was first suggested it got quite heated."

One Manchester city centre landlord, who did not want to be named, said: "It's ridiculous. The only way we would be able to limit numbers smoking outside is by holding people in venues against their will, which could cause a riot."

A council spokesman said: "We would certainly respond to any complaints or concerns we receive about crowds gathering outside licensed premises.

"We have not set limits for the number of people allowed to smoke outside licensed premises and we work closely with pub and club managers, the vast majority of whom manage their premises very well."
Manchester evening news

Some bars ignore state’s smoking ban rather than lose customers

Some bars ignore state’s smoking ban rather than lose customers
AKRON, Ohio — Some Ohio bar and restaurant owners are ignoring the state’s public smoking ban for fear of losing customers, risking fines up to $2,500 and nuisance charges before the health board.

The ban, passed by Ohio voters in November 2006, outlaws indoor smoking in most public places, including bars, restaurants, bowling alleys and, pending court appeals, private clubs such as VFW halls.

Many businesses are trying to bring their workplaces into compliance, said Cheri Christ, the sanitation supervisor for the Akron Health Department. Many others quietly — or in some cases flagrantly — ignore the ban in an attempt to hold on to a regular customer base.

Local health departments began enforcing the law on May 3, and have since logged about 17,900 complaints of violations, or 92 a day. After an initial warning, a second violation is $100, growing to $2,500 for fifth and subsequent violations.

Fines can double for bar owners who flagrantly break the rules, said Terry Tuttle, environmental health supervisor for the Summit County Health Department, who is charged with enforcing the law. Business owners may also face nuisance charges before the state health board, which could lead to more fines or possibly forced closure of their business.

To date, Corky’s Thomastown Cafe in Akron has drawn 37 complaints and owner Billy McFrye has been fined $100. McFrye said the ban has cost him at least 25 percent of his business.

“People aren’t coming out,” he said. “I’ve got numbers from last year to this year, and you can see it. It’s unreal. It’s gross.”

Contrary to some predictions, nonsmokers haven’t come out to replace smokers who now choose to do their drinking at home.

“Nonsmokers don’t go out anyway,” McFrye said. “They’re the cheapest people breathing air. I’ve been in business 23 years, and I know there’s nothing cheaper than a nonsmoker. I’m really upset with it. I wish the people who voted for it would get cancer.”

Bars and restaurants may suffer a further drop in sales as winter approaches and smokers are forced to bundle up to step outside for a smoke, said Jacob Evans, spokesman for the Ohio Licensed Beverage Association.

However, other business owners credit the ban with increased business. Ed Gazdacko, owner of Sto-Kent Family Entertainment Center in Stow, a bar and bowling center, worried that business would suffer but after an initial drop after the ban has seen an influx of new customers.

“The atmosphere is better. I’ve got new families coming in here, and they tell me: ’We knew you kept a clean place, but because there was secondhand smoke, we didn’t come here. Now we do,” Gazdacko said.

Some are seeking creative methods to keep customers coming without the appeal of indoor ashtrays. After business dropped about 25 percent at Bingo Night at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Cuyahoga Falls, the church dressed up its outdoor space with an awning, free coffee and propane heaters to keep smokers warm in chilly weather.

The church’s bingo business is back to at least 95 percent of what it was before the smoking ban, and attracted some new players, said parishioner Matt Pagni.

“Prior to the smoking ban, it was awful,” Pagni said. “You’d come home from bingo, peel off your clothes and head straight to the shower.”
Cantonrep.com

SHAH RUKH KHAN has come under fire

Actor SHAH RUKH KHAN has come under fire in India for openly flouting a smoking ban. The Bollywood star could face action by Indian authorities after allegedly smoking at a cricket match in Mumbai and at a media conference in Delhi. Anti-smoking group the National Organisation for Tobacco Eradication (NOTE) is calling for the 42-year-old star to explain his actions. A spokesman for the group says, "This is not how a superstar should behave. Adored by millions (he) cannot lend a helping hand to promote smoking. "We will be filing a case against him at the local court." However, the star's lawyers have rejected the allegations, arguing Khan was smoking on both occasions in private places. His attorney says, "A space where the general public does not have any access is excluded from the definition of a public place.
Contract Music

SNOOKER CLUBS CRY FOUL OVER SMOKING BAN

SNOOKER CLUBS CRY FOUL OVER SMOKING BAN
Snooker clubs have been brought to their knees by the smoking ban, according to Lincolnshire players.

The Lincolnshire and District Billiards and Snooker Association says it has experienced a dip in membership since the ban began in July.

And its remaining members are calling for the Government to have a change of heart.

The sport traditionally takes place in dimly-lit, smoky rooms but this image of hazy baize tables has slipped away.

Now, instead, players play frames alone while team-mates huddle outside to drag on their fags.

Many who like to smoke are now turning their back on the sport, according to association secretary Bernie Barker.

He said membership had slumped by 15 per cent since the ban - although so far the county's three snooker divisions have held up.

"It's killing the sport," he said.

"In snooker there should be a good team atmosphere.

"But instead of watching and supporting, team-mates are going out for a cigarette.

"I just think the Government hasn't really looked into the impact it's having on pubs and clubs."

Mr Barker's dire warnings have been swept aside by the Government, which insists that the ban benefits both smokers and those who might otherwise breathe in their smoke.
This is Lincolnshire