Overview

This bill proposes to amend the Health Act 2006, allowing private members' clubs in the UK to permit smoking in a separate, ventilated room if a majority of their members vote in favor. This would create an exception to the current nationwide smoking ban in enclosed public spaces.

Description

The Smoking (Private Members’ Clubs) Bill seeks to change the law regarding smoking in private members' clubs. Currently, the Health Act 2006 prohibits smoking in most enclosed public places. This bill proposes to amend section 3 of the Health Act 2006 by removing a subparagraph that prevents exemptions for private members' clubs.

The bill stipulates that if a majority of the members of a qualifying private members' club vote to allow smoking, the club must provide a designated, separately ventilated room for this purpose. The definition of a "qualifying" club is established by section 60 of the Licensing Act 2003. The bill will come into effect two months after it is passed.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to have a significant direct impact on government spending. Any costs associated with the bill's implementation would likely be borne by the individual private members' clubs themselves (e.g., costs of ventilation systems). No specific figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Private Members' Clubs: The bill directly affects private members' clubs, granting them the option to allow smoking in a designated area if a majority of their members approve. This may lead to increased operating costs for some clubs.
• Club Members: Members of private members' clubs will have a say in whether smoking is permitted in their club. Those who wish to smoke in the club will benefit, while non-smokers may be affected depending on the club's decision and ventilation effectiveness.
• Employees of Private Members' Clubs: Employees in affected clubs may experience changes in their work environment, potentially including exposure to secondhand smoke in designated smoking areas, depending on ventilation effectiveness.
• Public Health: The bill's impact on public health is debated. Supporters argue it respects members' rights, while opponents may express concerns about potential increased exposure to secondhand smoke and its health consequences.

Powered by nyModel