"We are heartened to see that progress is being made," Dr McCay added. She highlighted smoking as the leading cause of preventable illness in the UK, indicating that tougher regulations could alleviate severe issues for individuals and society.
Deborah Arnott emphasized that the public has an expectation not to breathe in tobacco smoke in places like children's play areas and outside pubs. She acknowledged the need for smokers to have access to some outdoor areas for smoking.
The hospitality sector, particularly the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA), warns that new restrictions could exacerbate existing challenges, as pub numbers have already declined significantly due to the pandemic and energy crisis.
Opposition politicians criticized the plans for being over-regulatory, expressing concern that such limitations could negatively impact hospitality businesses and further restrict choice for consumers.
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