13 May 2005
The Welsh Assembly's Committee on Smoking in Public Places is demanding a ban 'within two to three years' to emulate Scotland and Ireland.
The Assembly does not have the power to introduce a ban and has called on Westminster to propose a Bill.
In a report published on May 10, the cross-party committee says there is 'overwhelming evidence that environmental tobacco smoke is damaging to health'.
Val Lloyd, committee chair, said: 'I believe that our recommendations could make a significant impact on the health of the people of Wales.'
There would be some exemptions, such as nursing homes.
The committee dismissed concerns that a ban would hit the Welsh economy hard.
PFmay2005
