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Anger over proposed smoking ban

Residents spoke out against introducing a smoking ban at this week's people's meeting.

Former States member Lin Maurice told the Island Hall gathering a ban was unnecessary and would be unpopular. She also said the States had failed to consult the public despite two protest marches and numerous petitions.

Mrs Maurice said: "People are making it quite clear they do not want a ban, but freedom of choice.

"A ban is not in Alderney's interests. Tourism will suffer, pubs will close and people will lose their jobs if a ban is introduced."

Mrs Maurice added: "We're just bowing to pressure from Guernsey. This is Alderney, not Guernsey. We do things differently here."

Terri Marriner, landlady of the Coronation Inn, said a ban would force smokers out on the streets and create disturbances.

"There are enough problems in the summer months as it is. The police will need more staff if a ban is brought in."

Carole Neill said the island's tourism industry relies on pubs.

"The only thing we can offer tourists in Alderney is the pubs. A ban would be the beginning of the end for Alderney."

Another member of the public said he should have the right to drink in any pub without being forced to breath in carcinogenic fumes.

Convener John Beaman said every view would be read out at next week's States meeting. Mr Beaman went on to say the public should expect to hear several amendments to the proposed smoking law, which will come into effect on June 1 if passed by the full States on January 13.

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