This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Smoking Bill approved by Parliament
30/06/2005
The Scottish Parliament has voted in favour of a Bill
that means Scotland will be the first part of the UK to
become completely smoke free in all enclosed public
places.
The new law will come into force on March 26, 2006,
First Minister Jack McConnell announced after MSPs voted by
a majority of 97 to 17 with one abstention to pass new
public health legislation that aims to save thousands of
lives.
He said the Smoking, Health and Social Care (Scotland)
Bill would improve the nation's health and significantly
cut rates of smoking-related disease.
Mr McConnell continued:
"Today is a historic day for Scotland. This legislation
is one of the most important decisions that has been made
since devolution. It is a decision that shows that we are
determined to change Scotland for the better.
"March 26, 2006, will not just be the first day of
summer, it will be the first day of a new future for our
country. A healthier future. A future where Scots live
longer, families are less likely to be touched by tragedy
and our young people are fitter and better prepared to make
the most of their ambitions. It is a future that we can all
look forward to."
Health Minister Andy Kerr said:
"By doing this we will save thousands of lives and help
keep families together for longer. Smoking has wreaked a
catastrophic toll on Scotland's people. Each year 13,000
Scots still die before their time as a result. This is our
35 a day habit and today's vote means we really will start
to kick it.
"We know that that 70 per cent of Scots don't smoke and
of those who do 70 per cent want to give up. Stubbing out
smoking is the right decision for the smoker, their friends
and their families. I know, however, that it can also be a
hard one - with taking the first step often the most
difficult part. Having services out in the community - in
places where people live and work will make that step
easier.
"That is why we announced an additional £11 million
earlier this year to support people who want to kick the
habit."
Mr Kerr concluded:
"A
poll
released earlier this week shows widespread public
support for what we're doing and I am pleased to see that
the weight of opinion has been reflected in the Scottish
Parliament today."
The Bill also contains a range of other measures which
will improve health and access to healthcare across the
country including free eye and dental checks for all.