An end to public smoking? :: Wessex Scene Online

An end to public smoking?

24th December 2005
Peter Lamb

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Southampton University’s Students’ Union took the first steps towards becoming a smoke-free institution, when, in November, the Union Management Board (UMB) decided on a trial partial smoking ban. The ban will prohibit smoking on Level 2 of The Cube and the dance floor.It will not, however, affect the Level 3 bar or the Bridge, and at this point there are no plans to extend the policy to the Stag’s Head.

This policy reflects a nationwide increase in anti-smoking feeling. As the Department of Health states its intention to raise the minimum age to buy tobacco from 16 to 18 years, the Health Bill going through the Commons is seen by many to be the first step in what may well be a total ban on smoking in public places. The Bill bans smoking in enclosed or partially enclosed areas, with the exception of certain licensed premises which are not serving food, and private members’ clubs. It has been speculated that the law will have a direct effect on the future of socialising for students. However, the law will not technically affect the Students’ Union, the bar facilities of which are restricted to Union members, is classing the venue as a private members’ club.

Some opponents of the trial ban have suggested that it may have a considerable impact on the Union’s bar sales, by persuading large numbers of smokers to find alternative premises where they can smoke. But proposers have countered the argument by claiming that this is only a partial ban and that smokers can still use other areas of nightclub to smoke should they wish, so it may well be that the financial effect is rather a minimal one.

Whether or not the trial leads to a permanent ban or is rescinded will depend on a combination of factors. The members of Union Management Board will decide what further action to take by looking at a combination of impact on the sales figures, the health risks of smoking and secondary smoking and the student body’s view on the matter.

It is clear that, ultimately, the decision will come down to whether smokers are a more powerful lobbying group than those who would rather have a smoke-free night.