Three quarters of Brits support smoking ban in cars

Three quarters of Brits say they would support a ban on smoking in cars with children, according to a YouGov poll.

The survey was carried out for the UK Faculty of Public Health (FPH), and found that the overwhelming majority of respondents would support such a ban, with only 10 per cent being against and 11 per cent remaining undecided.

The Metro reports that second-hand smoke inside cars can be 27 times more toxic than that in smokers' homes, and can be particularly dangerous for young passengers.

FPG head of policy, Rachael Jolley, explained: "There's a wealth of medical and public backing for a ban on smoking in cars with children.

"Attitudes to smoking have changed dramatically."

Professor Mitch Blair from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health agreed, stating: "We strongly support the call to ban smoking in cars with children travelling in them to ensure that we protect their health.

"The public is sending out a strong message in this survey and the government should act on this."

According to the Department of Health, most people are now aware of the danger of passive smoking, and should take responsibility for their children's health. While many parents fit their cars with safety devices to protect their children in the event of road accidents, and help their car insurance claims, not enough are taking basic precautions to safeguard their child's health, the survey suggested.

As well as supporting a ban on smoking in vehicles, the poll also found that Brits are demanding more information on health risks from food and drinks, including being in favour of 'traffic light' labelling systems for food, and alcoholic drinks featuring a list of units and calories.

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 01:49:00 GMT