Licensees call for exemptions on smoking ban

Licensees are calling for the government to consider a 'third way' over its plans for a smoking ban in public places.

At a Publican Forum held yesterday a panel of eight licensees agreed that the government's halfway-house proposal to ban smoking in food pubs from 2008 was unworkable.

Instead the group, chaired by The Publican's editor Caroline Nodder, suggested that ministers should consider options to protect pubs which would be hardest hit by smoking restrictions.

Pubs could win exemptions from a ban based on factors including turnover and floor space.

It was also argued that pubs be allowed separate smoking rooms, similar to those in airports, if space is available.

During the debate at the Belfry, near Birmingham, the panel - including a number of Publican Award winners - accepted some form of ban was inevitable but recommended working with the government rather than against it to reach a compromise acceptable to both.

Becky Salisbury, licensee at the Alford Arms, near Berkhamsted, said: "I think the current proposals are completely mickey mouse.

"It's inevitable there will be some form of ban and we should be helping out businesses that will not be able to cope."

The panel agreed to fight the government's plan to allow private members' clubs to be exempt from any ban, preferring a level playing field.

Rugby licensee Bernard Brindley, chairman of the BII Central, called for unity to ensure the trade had once voice in presenting its representations before the current government consultation closes on September 5.

"The vital thing is we are united as an industry," he said.

Oliver Griffiths of the industry's clean-air initiative Atmosphere Improves Results (AIR), which supported the forum, said: "Everybody thinks that a blanket ban is not a good idea, but you have to recognise the government is going to do something very vigorous."

The Publican is gathering responses on these issues to make a submission before September 5. We have already had more than 100 responses and would welcome your support.

To register your views visit: www.thepublican.com/smokingconsultation​ or email arjf@gurchoyvpna.pbz​ or call 020 8565 3054.