Madam, If this letter is printed I will have probably started smoking again since the ban on July 1st just to get back at authority. It has been nearly two years since I packed up smoking because 'I' made the decision without any force from the Government. In past times the public house was always a retreat for gentlemen to enjoy a pint and a smoke after a busy day at work. Modern days brought women into the Bar area which is good as I do not believe in segregation. Now children are also allowed which did not happen in my days. We had to sit in the Beer Garden (18s Only). The Public House has always been a place to have a drink and a smoke without the government telling you what is acceptable. As a non smoker at the moment I choose to meet my friends for a drink knowing somebody will be smoking in the establishment. Would it not have made more sense for the landlords to choose if they will be non-smoking or smoking? People could then decide if they want to frequent a totally non smoking area or put up with a traditional habit. As somebody who has just become a member of the British Institute of Innkeepers and has passed the qualifications for a Personal Licence, in theory I can legally sell a packet of cigarettes to somebody over the legal age but they are not allowed to smoke them from where they are purchased. How stupid!!! If people now give up due to the ban, as I did ages ago, where is the revenue from tax coming from? All non smokers should be glad of the money smokers pay in tax from their packet of cigarettes. I cannot recall being asked to take part, or vote in any non smoking ban. What next? As a non tea or coffee drinker I think it would be a good idea to ban both. Just think of the damage to the environment transporting these products from abroad. (Joke). Whoops, sorry, Don't want to give them any ideas! Mike Barnard GBII, Rowan Close, Ross
