230,000 smokers kick habit south of border in first year of public ban

Published on Saturday 28 June 2008 19:52

ALMOST a quarter of a million people have stopped smoking since the ban on lighting up in public places in England was introduced, according to an official report to be published this week.

A total of 234,060 people have stopped smoking with the help of the NHS Quit Smoking Service since the ban was brought in on July 1, 2007. That is 22% more people than in the previous 12 months. The Department of Health report on the smoke-free legislation will be published on the first anniversary of the smoking ban. It also states the ban has cut pollution levels in bars and restaurants by 91%.

Fears that the ban would not be enforced have proved groundless with 98% of locations inspected complying with the legislation and 76% of the population saying they back the law.

In the foreword to the report, Chief Medical Officer Sir Liam Donaldson writes: "The significance of the smoke-free laws cannot be underestimated. A significant reduction in second-hand smoke with its damaging health effects has been achieved. We expect many lives have been saved. Everyone has the right to enjoy the benefits of a cleaner, healthier environment."

Amanda Sandford, research manager at the campaigning charity Action on Smoking and Health, said the ban had been a resounding success. She said: "There are so many benefits from the legislation. For example, we have seen a decline in the number of people being admitted to hospital with heart disease and there has been a 76% reduction in the nicotine levels of bar workers."