Smoking banned by pub chain

A leading brewer yesterday took the first step towards an outright ban on smoking in pubs.

Greene King said it would stop customers lighting up in half its 550 directly managed outlets - those which concentrate on serving food.

The decision is likely to affect its Hungry Horse chain, 50 other dining pubs and Old English Inns, which have accommodation.

The company said it was taking action as a complete ban on smoking in public places was 'almost inevitable'.

Greene King's move came after Health Secretary John Reid asked leisure industry leaders to phase in restrictions on smoking at a meeting last week.

It has already tested the idea in four pubs and said it would be introduced at one new venue every week.

The brewer, which has more than 2,000 pubs across the country, believes a ban will boost business by attracting customers usually put off by a smoky atmosphere.

Marketing director Adam Collett said: 'We believe in the rights of our customers to choose their own lifestyles. Equally, we respect the right of customers who prefer to enjoy our hospitality in a smoke-free environment.'

Deborah Arnott, director of Action on Smoking and Health, said: 'We agree that a ban is inevitable and that for the pub trade, particularly those servicing food, it is in their interests to encourage non-smoking because it is good for business.'

But Nick Bish, chief executive of the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers, said: 'We want landlords and restaurateurs asking their customers and staff what they want - and then banning smoking or not banning smoking on that advice.'

The Government is to publish a White Paper which is likely to suggest a ban, to combat the effects of passive smoking.

It would follow a successful ban in Ireland and in New York, where businesses' profits have been unscathed but one in eight smokers has been persuaded to quit.