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that so called air-rage incidents must have at least in some cases something to do with allowing people lots of booze while banning them from a cigarette.
I think that total ban on smoking on many (even uncovered) rail platforms and in some airports is completely unjustified by any arguments of inconveniencing non-smokers.

The fourth group of places are what most of the arguments are now about: clubs, pubs and restaurants. I do believe that cigarettes are very much a part of going-out script for many people and integral element in the process of getting generally wasted (drunk, stoned, high, deafened by loud music, laid) that comprises a good night out (OK, not any more for me but I have fond memories). Clubs and pubs should decide for themselves if they are going to ban or partially ban smoking: there is absolutely no compulsion of visiting these places and I really do think that people should be allowed to vote with their feet: those who are concerned about smoking will simply stay out of a smoking venue. I know that there is concern about effects of passive smoking on staff employed in such establishments, but if the link between passive smoking and long-term health risks is ever conclusively proven, smoking pubs and clubs could be treated as 'hazardous areas' and non-smokers employed in such would be paid more, a bit like workers with hazardous or radioactive chemicals are, I believe.

Restaurants are a harder case in my opinion as tobacco and food are not nowadays culturally linked as closely as tobacco and booze. I would suggest smoking and non-smoking rooms where possible while if not a choice left to the restaurant (smoking or non-smoking).

And finally, I can't see any reasons whatsoever for banning smoking outside in open public spaces like parks or streets.

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For those interested in my personal relation to smoking; I don't smoke now, until 2 years ago I used to smoke daily for about 15 years, I come from a non-smoking family but all the guests were allowed to smoke inside unless there was a baby in the room.

Learn more about this author, Magda Healey.
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