The Government today has given its clearest indication yet that they would take action to stop people smoking in cars where there are children present.
In a letter to Stockton North MP Alex Cunningham, the Health Minister Anne Milton said “We would like to see smoking in cars with children present eradicated.”
The Health Minister also admitted that smoke free legislation prohibiting smoking in enclosed public places and workplaces has done a great deal to reduce exposure to second-hand smoke and raise awareness of the harm that this exposure can cause.
The minister stated that further consideration on a ban in cars was needed, despite 86% of parents supporting legislation to stop adults smoking when children are present.
Alex said:
“I am pleased that the government has shifted its opinion and has not ruled out introducing a ban on smoking in cars where there are children present. “
“Education is one thing but without legislation it will take years to change behaviour. Given the numbers of children that are exposed to passive smoke and the serious effect on their health, we cannot afford to wait.”
“While my Bill failed to get a second reading in the House of Commons, it is being resurrected by Tory Peer Lord Ribeiro in the House of Lords, and I hope the government will take the opportunity to pick up the Bill and put the health of thousands of children ahead of the rights of smokers.”
