Germany acts on smoking

Published on Sunday 3 December 2006 01:44

GERMANY is heading for a ban on smoking in many public places - but the measure won't clear the fog in smoky bars and beer tents.

Under a proposal from a group of governing coalition lawmakers released at the end of last week, restaurants in one of Europe's most nicotine-friendly countries will also be able to offer separate smoking rooms.

The proposal, which could take effect in July 2007 if parliament approves, would in principle ban smoking in all public buildings and hospitals.

However, the restrictions fall short of the more draconian anti-smoking measures taking hold elsewhere in Europe.

Bars and beer tents will be exempted completely. That contrasts with the stance of countries such as Scotland, Ireland and Italy, where smoking is totally banned in bars and restaurants.