​Smoking Ban in Pub Gardens Under Review as Hospitality Industry Pushes Back

The UK government is reconsidering plans to ban smoking in pub and restaurant gardens following significant opposition from the hospitality industry. Ministers and public health officials had initially proposed the ban as part of broader efforts to curb smoking-related health issues, but mounting concerns over potential job losses and pub closures have caused the government to hesitate.

Professor Sir Chris Whitty - Advocates for wide-ranging outdoor smoking restrictions.

Downing Street has expressed reservations about the proposed smoking restrictions, particularly regarding their impact on the hospitality sector. Reports indicate that while banning smoking outside hospitals, schools, and playgrounds is likely to proceed, extending the restrictions to pub gardens is seen as economically damaging. The British Beer and Pub Association and other industry bodies have voiced strong opposition to the ban, warning it could severely harm pubs already struggling to stay afloat.

Kate Nicholls, CEO of UKHospitality, highlighted the sector's economic challenges, saying, "A ban on smoking in outdoor spaces comes with the prospect of serious economic harm to hospitality venues. You only have to look back to the significant pub closures we saw after the indoor smoking ban to see the potential impact it could have."

Kate Nicholls, CEO of UKHospitality - Voices concern over the economic impact of a smoking ban on hospitality.

Data on pub closures underscores these concerns. In 2023 alone, 509 pubs shut down, resulting in the loss of 6,000 jobs—an alarming rise compared to previous years. This economic strain has led many in the industry to argue that further restrictions could exacerbate the existing challenges.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting has publicly acknowledged the need for a "national conversation" before making final decisions. While keen to push forward with measures to reduce smoking rates, he has been clear that any new legislation will be subject to consultation with voters. Streeting has also signalled interest in implementing a licensing scheme for tobacco retailers and raising the legal age for purchasing cigarettes to reduce youth smoking rates.

Deborah Arnott, Chief Executive of ASH - Supports tighter smoking laws to align with public expectations.

Streeting's caution is contrasted by the push from public health officials, including England's Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Chris Whitty, who advocates for a broad outdoor smoking ban. Although proposals to extend the ban to parks and beaches have been deemed unlikely, including pub gardens remains a contentious issue within the government.

Polling reflects a nation divided on the issue. A YouGov survey in September 2024 revealed that 51% of respondents supported a ban on smoking in pub gardens, while 43% opposed it. Stronger support exists for banning smoking outside hospitals, with 76% in favour.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting - Calls for a national debate on outdoor smoking regulations.

Deborah Arnott, Chief Executive of Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), has argued that public expectations are changing, noting, "The government is catching up with what the public expects—not to have to breathe in tobacco smoke in places like children's play areas and seating areas outside pubs, restaurants, and cafes."

Despite public health arguments, the government appears cautious about moving too quickly, particularly given the economic stakes. As ministers weigh the potential health benefits against the economic costs, the outcome of this debate will likely shape future tobacco legislation.