Will the government's proposals on a partial smoking ban in pubs result in some licencees deciding to opt for smoking rather than eating in their pubs? This report from Southwark's Principle Environmental Health Officer (and published on the London Health Observatory site) seems to say it will in Southwark, and that the smoking pubs will be in the most deprived areas. The report is based on a survey of pubs and bars in the borough, that asked about the existing situation with smoking and food, and whether this would change if the current proposals become law. It concludes:
The proportion of pubs and bars that do not serve food was higher than the 10-30% suggested by the UK government. This proportion is likely to increase significantly given the indicated intentions of the business proprietors. The proportion of pubs allowing unrestricted smoking and the proportion of non-food venues was higher in more disadvantaged areas, suggesting that the proposed UK government policy of exempting pubs that do not serve food from smokefree legislation, will exacerbate inequalities in smoking and health.
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