A ban on smoking in cars where there are youngsters present looks inevitable now that the Scottish Government has thrown its weight behind proposed legislation.
Last year Liberal Democrat MSP Jim Hume put forward a member’s bill – which could mean smokers being fined £100 for smoking in a car with someone under the age of 18 – to protect children in vehicles from the health risks associated with slipstream smoke.
Public Health Minister Maureen Watt announced yesterday that the government was “very supportive” of the principle of the Smoking Prohibition (Children in Motor Vehicles) (Scotland) Bill, but would require changes to ensure it was workable.
“This government is absolutely committed to protecting children from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke,” she said.
“Last year we announced a target to reduce the proportion of children in Scotland exposed in the home from 12% to 6% by 2020, potentially saving 50,000 Scottish children from second-hand smoke.
“Mr Hume’s Bill chimes with those aims and we have always been clear that we supported the proposals in principle.
“We consulted on the possibility of including this measure in our forthcoming Public Health Bill, but we have now decided to support this members’ bill.
“As with any bill, as it goes through the scrutiny process there may be amendments and improvements to strengthen the legislation and ensure it is fit for purpose.
“But we believe that the underpinning principles are strong and that is why I am pleased to support it.”
Mr Hume’s bill has already been backed by the Scottish Parliament’s health committee.
Mr Hume said: “I am over the moon that the Scottish Government is to support my moves to ban smoking in cars whilst children are present.
“With cross-party support and the support of many third-sector organisations, there is every chance that this could be in place in the next year.”