Lifestyle: Public backing for smoking bans

The public would overwhelmingly back widespread smoking bans, according to a poll last night.

Fifty four per cent of those surveyed by ICM for today's Guardian said they would favour a ban in all public places. The poll also found backing for a lowering of the legal drink-drive limit. But a majority disapproved of the Government's decision to ban beef on the bone.

The findings on smoking will be a boost for ministers preparing proposals for a major drive against tobacco smoking and to boost public health, which could include encouraging voluntary smoking bans. The majorities favouring smoking bans ran across all age groups and social classes, including 18- to 24-year-olds where the habit is more prevalent. Support for the prohibition was slightly stronger among women than men.