There is a plan in force to ban smoking in cars in Wales to protect the health of children travelling in them.
The welsh assembly of labour leaders could be bringing a new law into force to ban cigarettes in cars. Offenders could actually face criminal charges if they are caught smoking in their vehicle even if they are in England on the outskirts of Wales.
The Welsh Minister Carwyn Jones said they will not tolerate second hand smoke affecting children whilst travelling in their cars. When children are in a confined space such as in a car their health is seriously put at risk due to their parents smoking in their cars.
They have said that they will legislate for this if the general public don’t stop smoking in their vehicles and the number of offenders does not drop in the next three years. To get this in motion there will be talks with police chiefs as well as the Welsh Assembly.
This proposal was also agreed with by the British Medical Association. Dr Mark Temple said that he belives it is in the best interest of children to be protected in the future by banning smoking in cars. Anti-smoking group ASH also backed the proposal.
The AA raised concerns that the plan may confuse drivers who regularly cross the border. Some people also claimed that it may lead to an increase in accidents, with addicted drivers experiencing high levels of nerves due to a withdrawal from nicotine. David Davies, a Tory MP has claimed that smokers are being victimised.