Choice versus compulsion
Friday, 16th May 2008
From Chris James
I have been a UKIP member since 2005 but would not support your efforts to have the smoking ban overturned. Smokers whinge about discrimination and talk about freedom of choice, but where was freedom of choice when I wanted to go out for a smoke-free meal?
Prior to the ban, the number of adequate smoke-free eating places was limited. I lost count of the number of times smokers, upon completing their meals, would light up and blow their filthy smoke in my direction. Going home smelling like an ashtray was not my idea of a good night out, which basically meant I and my family did not go out much.
I am sorry, but I have no sympathy for smokers who are now not happy because they cannot inflict the effects of their smoking on non-smokers.
UKIP get real and leave the ban in place. It is now a pleasure to take my family out for a smoke free, stench free meal.
Editor’s Note: Given our commitment to Freedom to Choose, UKIP believes that in this matter choice should be available to all, smokers and non-smokers, businesses and individuals. This can be easily achieved. Our policy paper Rebalancing Justice states:
“UKIP would replace the smoking ban with legislation requiring premises owners to provide smoke-free areas and/or dedicated internal smoking areas. If not possible, the premises would have to be designated all 'non smoking' or 'all smoking' and advertise this prominently outside.”
Back to The smoking ban
