STOCKHOLM: The Swedish parliament voted last Wednesday in favor of a government proposal to clear the air in bars and restaurants starting on June 1, 2005. Lawmakers approved the proposal by 245 votes to 45, despite objections from the Swedish hotel and

"We share the government's conclusion that a law is needed to ensure that restaurants, cafes and pubs stay free of smoke," the majority committee said in a statement. "In our decision, the committee emphasizes that international studies and developments in Sweden show that a smokefree law is needed." A smokefree law in bars and restaurants in neighboring Norway is scheduled to go into effect on June 1. European countries Ireland and the Netherlands introduced similar smokefree laws earlier this year. Outside of Europe, New Zealand, India, Uganda, and Bhutan have adopted similar measures.

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