Public supports increasing restrictions on smoking
A recent survey conducted by Guernsey’s Health Improvement Commission (HIC) shows that the public supports stricter regulations on tobacco sales and smoking locations. Over 900 people participated in the survey, which explored 11 potential restrictions.
The proposal that received the most support was a ban on smoking in outdoor children’s playgrounds, with 82% of respondents in favor. On the other hand, banning smoking outside pubs and bars, as well as limiting the number of tobacco retailers in certain areas, received the least support, with only 26% backing these ideas.
Guernsey has long been a pioneer in tobacco control. It was the first place to implement a ban on smoking in indoor public spaces in 2005, two years before the UK followed suit. Last year, it also became illegal to smoke in a car with children, catching up with England, Wales, and Jersey.
The HIC survey also asked about other possible measures, including extending the legal smoking age, banning tobacco sales in certain establishments, and creating more smoke-free spaces. The results revealed strong support for protecting children and vulnerable groups from secondhand smoke and for creating environments where smoking is less normalized.
Lucy Cave, a tobacco harm reduction officer at the HIC, expressed surprise at the level of support for these measures, particularly from younger focus groups. These young people showed progressive views, emphasizing the need for more smoke-free areas to protect public health.
However, some restrictions received opposition. For example, 18% of respondents strongly opposed the idea of banning smoking outside bars and pubs. Simon Allum, who owns PingQuay bar in St Peter Port, argued that smoking is part of the social experience for many people and extending bans to outdoor areas might be too much. Smoker Ben Tustin also disagreed with the proposal, stating that smoking should be allowed in designated outdoor areas.
Despite some resistance, the survey highlights a growing trend toward more smoke-free environments in Guernsey, with many residents favoring stronger tobacco controls for the sake of public health.
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