VOTE: Would you support an outdoor smoking ban?

According to reports in The Sun​, ​the indoor smoking ban could be extended to pub gardens, outside of nightclubs, restaurant terraces, outside sports stadiums, children’s parks, pavements by universities and hospitals as well as shisha bars.

Following this, Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed to the BBC​ ​the Government was considering tougher rules on outdoor smoking.

British Beer & Pub Association CEO Emma McClarkin called on the Government to reconsider the move.

She said: “It is deeply concerning and difficult to understand why the Government would bring forward proposals that will be yet another blow to the viability of our nation’s vital community assets.

“We know from experience this restriction would have a devastating impact on pubs that are already struggling with soaring energy prices and the cost of doing business.

Misguided restriction

McClarkin added: “For generations, pubs have welcomed people, not turned them away, have helped combat loneliness and provided a vital place where people meet and make friends.

“These benefits to the community and local economy must not be taken for granted and we urge the Government to reconsider this misguided restriction.”

Operator of the Unruly Pig in Bromeswell, Suffolk Brendan Padfield echoed concerns around the impact on trade.

He said: “This is wokism on steroids. As a non-smoker, I though the initial smoking ban inside pubs to be a very positive development [and was] all for it.

“However, this proposal is just another body blow for pubs when they are closing at a record rate – Covid, cost-of-living crisis, Brexit labour shortages, food inflation and now this.

“At this most difficult time for the hospitality sector, the last thing we need is a move that will persuade less customers to dine out or go for a pint.

“It feels like a war of attrition at times. I struggle to understand the logic of a smoking ban in a pub garden but not in your home back yard.

“I would have thought His Majesty’s Government have far more pressing issues to focus upon rather than hit an already very hard-hit sector.”

Whole space impact

However, multiple operator Piers Baker, owner of the Sun Inn, Dedham on the Essex/Suffolk border and Church Street Tavern in Colchester, Essex shared his views on the potential ban, stating he was in favour of it.

He said: “If a pub garden can keep smoke away from non-smokers, that would be ideal. With our venues, our outside areas are quite tight and right next to the building so when people smoke, it affects the whole space as well as filtering into the building – bar, restaurant and rooms.

“So yes, we would be in favour of a ban because when we ask people to move to the designated smoking areas away from our terraces, they generally are offended and ignore or make it difficult for our teams to manage.

“It’s a case of offending a handful of random smokers or a restaurant/terrace full of non-smokers. We are in favour.”