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Fines threat to smokers who flout the ban
Bethan Dorsett2/10/2007
‘YOU are being watched’ is the warning to smokers as the council begins an autumn clampdown on those spotted flouting the smoking ban.
Since 1 July, when the ban on lighting up in any public building came into force, officers have visited over 2,000 places in the borough to make sure the rules are being followed.
But while most are complying, officers will be getting tough on the ‘handful’ still breaking the law, including those trying to sneak a quick cigarette break outside a public building.
The council will use its new powers to fine offenders, a move which has not been used so far while the new rules were being eased in.
Lisa Barker, the council’s tobacco-free chief, said: "Out of 2,000 visited, around 99 per cent have complied with the smoking ban.
"This is, of course, excellent although there is a handful of people that are not complying.
"The complaints have often been about people smoking outside public buildings with the doors partly open.
"We want to make it clear to these people that if they do not comply with the ban, we will take action. We are looking to increase enforcement over the next few months."
By law, the council has the power to issue verbal and then written warnings to those spotted flouting the ban. If they fail to comply, it can issue a £50 fine, which will be reduced to £30 if it is paid within a fortnight.
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3/10/2007 at 16:18