It has been announced that the smokefree elements of the Health Act 2006 will come into force on 6am in 1 July 2007. This will mean that virtually all enclosed public places and some 3.7 million business workplaces (including offices, factories, shops, pubs, bars, restaurants, membership clubs, public transport and work vehicles) in England will become smokefree environments. Scotland has already brought into force their own equivalent legislation, and Wales has an implementation date of 2 April 2007. Northern Ireland will follow on 30 April.
The Health Secretary Patricia Hewitt, said "This is a triumph for public health and a huge step forward for health protection. Thousands of people's lives will be saved and the health of thousands more protected. Smokefree legislation will protect everyone from the harm of second hand smoke when working, socialising and relaxing and will provide a more supportive environment for smokers who wish to give up."
