by Joe Jeffrey
MPs and peers set to vote on banning smoking in cars with children
Members of Parliament and peers are set to vote on implementing a ban on smoking in cars carrying children early next year.
Anyone found to be smoking in a car carrying a person under the age of 18 will be presented with an on-the-spot fine of £50. Drivers will also be held liable for the failure to prevent other people from smoking whilst in their vehicle too.
A ‘yes’ vote is expected, owing to a majority of MPs pledging their support for the proposal, with the ban set to be introduced on 1 October 2015 to coincide with the next general election and Stoptober should it be given the green light.
Public health minister Jane Ellison said: “Second-hand smoke is a real threat to children’s health and we want them to grow up free from the risks of smoking.
“The only effective way to protect children is to prevent them breathing second-hand smoke and our plans to stop smoking in cars carrying children will help us to do this.”
Smoking ban plans have also been put forward in Scotland and Wales, whilst Northern Ireland is currently considering the move.
What do you think? Is this a good idea or simply unnecessary and excessive?
