Scotland (UK) Begins Smokefree Future
03/26/06
First in UK to go smokefree, Scotland looks to the future
Scotland, 3/26/06-- Today is the first day of the rest of Scotland's smokefree life. The reaction (especially what actions increase compliance) will be watched closely by England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, where similar smokefree laws will go into effect later this year and next.
Scotland First Minister Jack McConnell released the following statement:
Scotland will be proud that it has gone smoke-free ahead of any other part of the UK. The smokefree law is absolutely the right way forward. It is right for Scotland, for our nation's health, our nation's economy, and our tourist industry.
This country has always been a great place to live, to work, to bring up your children and even just to visit. Today, it just got better.
In the years ahead, people will look back on today as the day that Scotland took the largest single step to improve its health for generations. It is a day for all Scots to be proud of our nation. Scotland - the best small country in the world.
Penalties for breaking the law range from about $100 for smokers to about $400 for businesses. Failure to pay the fine may result in prosecution and a fine up to $5,000.
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