Legal expert available for comment on smoking ban and what it will mean for businesses

The smoke free premises and enforcement regulations in England come into effect at 6am on Sunday the 1st July 2007. On this date, smoking will no longer be permitted in any enclosed or substantially enclosed premises, or vehicles that are open to the public, including pubs, restaurants and places of work. Some exceptions apply, including designated smoking rooms in hotels or residential nursing homes.

Mike Rainford, head of business crime at Burton Copeland said: Should these regulations be contravened, individuals can face on the spot fines of 50, which can rise to up to 1000 should the issue be brought to court. Employers / managers of the premises can also face a fine of 200. This figure can rise to as much as 2500 if not paid within the correct time frame. Premises need to display specific signs, as do all public transport including taxiís, trains and buses; plus business vehicles that carry a non-specified employee.

Mike is available for expert comment / by-lined features. To arrange, please contact Danielle Newman at Pazang PR, 0845 090 0171 or danielle.newman@pazang.co.uk