MPs call ban on smoking in cars 'counterproductive'

DOCTORS have called for a ban on smoking in cars as the best way to protect young passengers from levels of toxins up to 23 times higher than are found in a smoky bar, saying such a move would be "bold and courageous".

But MPs, it seems, are feeling neither bold nor courageous, saying that an immediate ban would be "counterproductive".

The British Medical Association has reviewed the scientific literature on passive smoking and concludes that a total ban on smoking in cars - even if there are no passengers - would be most effective as it would be easier to police and would negate the possible risk of smoking being a distraction to drivers.

The BMA claims the majority of adults in England support a ban on smoking in vehicles where a child is present. But in seeking a ban even without children present, doctors may have overstepped the mark.

The All-Party Parliamentary Group on Smoking and Health says an immediate ban on smoking in cars would be "counterproductive", the BBC reports. MPs believe consensus must be built across society first.

Meanwhile, a Department of Health spokesman told The Guardian: "We do not believe that legislation is the most effective way to encourage people to change their behaviour."

Unsurprisingly, Forest, a smokers' rights group, has slammed the idea of a ban. The group's director Simon Clark said: "Legislation is a gross overreaction. What next, a ban on smoking in the home?"

Er, well, yes, maybe... The BMA makes clear in its briefing its desire to achieve a "tobacco-free society" by 2035. ·