Memorandum by Gallaher Group plc (SP15)
Following the Health Committee's announcement
regarding its inquiry into Smoking in Public Places, Gallaher
would like to take this opportunity to respond briefly to your
notice.
As I am sure you are aware, smoking in public
places has been the subject of a number of consultations across
the UK over the last year or so and, recognising that Government
bodies normally deal with trade associations on specific sector
issues, Gallaher's views on this matter have been presented during
these consultations by our trade association, the Tobacco Manufacturers'
Association (TMA).
As the TMA is responding on behalf of its members
to this inquiry we urge you to consider the recommendations expressed
in the TMA's submission to the Department of Health, which Gallaher
fully supports. In summary, we believe that, in addition to the
Government's proposals, a practical and proportionate approach,
that ensures smokers and those who do not like tobacco smoke are
accommodated, would be to permit smoking in separate designated
smoking rooms in all workplaces, including offices, restaurants,
pubs etc, where this is practicable. Furthermore, we believe that
such an approach would also reflect the weight of public opinion.
September 2005
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