Nick Watt, a savvy political editor from Newsnight, joins Nicky Campbell, the charismatic presenter from 5Live, to dissect the government's proposal to ban smoking in outdoor public spaces. They dive into the balance between public health and personal freedom while discussing potential impacts on struggling businesses. Additionally, they reminisce about the electrifying Oasis concert at Warwick University in 1993, inviting nostalgic stories from listeners. Tune in for a blend of serious debate and heartwarming memories!
The government's proposal to expand the smoking ban outdoors aims to reduce preventable deaths and alleviate NHS burdens.
Public sentiment towards the outdoor smoking ban reveals significant polarization, balancing health concerns against individual freedoms and business impacts.
Deep dives
Proposed Expansion of Smoking Ban
The government is exploring an expansion of the indoor smoking ban to include outdoor areas such as restaurant terraces, playgrounds, and stadiums. This initiative is driven by the high number of preventable deaths linked to smoking, which significantly burdens the NHS financially. Keir Starmer has indicated his commitment to this policy, originally initiated by Rishi Sunak, which aims to prohibit cigarette sales to individuals born after 2009. This proposal is seen as a preventative health measure to alleviate NHS pressures and reduce the overall smoking prevalence.
Public Reaction and Political Debate
Public reaction to the proposed smoking ban has been mixed, prompting a lively debate among political figures and the general populace. While some express concerns about government overreach and individual freedoms, others support the policy as a necessary health measure. A significant portion of the public appears to favor the ban, with polling indicating that 58% support the proposal, whereas 35% oppose it. The ongoing discussions highlight the contrasting views on health intervention and personal liberties, resembling debates from past public health initiatives.
Potential Impact on Businesses and Social Spaces
The extension of the smoking ban could have significant implications for businesses, particularly the pub and restaurant industries, which have voiced concerns about the impact on their establishments. Some industry supporters argue that the decision should be left to individual businesses rather than enforced by government mandates. Additionally, minorities, such as shisha bar owners, fear that this proposal could threaten their business viability due to restrictions on outdoor smoking. The introduction of such regulations may prompt broader cultural shifts regarding smoking in public spaces, similar to those experienced following indoor smoking bans.
Today, we look at the government considering banning smoking outdoors in public places.
Sir Keir Starmer says that the government is looking at stopping smoking in pub gardens, outdoor restaurants, outside hospitals and sports grounds. Adam is joined by Newsnight political editor Nick Watt and 5Live presenter Nicky Campbell.
And, did you see Oasis at Warwick University in 1993? We want to hear from you!
You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.
You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhere
Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Gemma Roper and Sam McLaren. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The editor is Sam Bonham.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode