- 01/03/2021
- Posted by: Lesley Griffiths MS
- Category: News
New legislation making it illegal for people to smoke on hospital grounds, school grounds and public playgrounds has come into force in Wales today (1 March).
Wales has become the first nation in the UK to extend its smoking ban to outdoor areas and Wrexham’s Member of the Senedd has welcomed the move.
Lesley Griffiths MS said: “Strengthening the laws around smoking in public places will further protect non-smokers from second-hand smoke, as well as acting as a greater deterrent for children and young people.
“Introducing the smoking ban in indoor places in 2007 has helped bring about a major cultural shift. Attitudes towards smoking have altered as the legislation has helped de-normalise the habit.
“This latest legislation takes us a step further and I am proud the Welsh Government is determined to protect and improve public health, particularly safeguarding Wales’ younger generation from the effects of smoking.”
The landmark law aims to discourage people from starting smoking in the first place and to support those trying to quit.
By introducing smoke-free legislation, it is hoped more people will be protected from harmful second-hand smoke and that the chances of children starting to smoke will be reduced.
Anyone found breaking the law could face a fine of up to £100 and further guidance has been published on the Welsh Government’s website.
