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date: 14 February 2006

embargo: immediate

Smoking ban is major victory for union campaigning

Commenting on today's decision by MPs to ban smoking in all workplaces, TUC General Secretary, Brendan Barber, said:

'This is a major victory for the simple union principle that people at work should not have to breathe in toxins. The government was right to make this a free vote, and let MPs have the same debate that has been aired in every pub and bar in the country.

'Working together with health campaigners and progressive parts of the hospitality business, unions have persuaded MPs that employees should enjoy a smoke free workplace from summer 2007. This is a major victory for unions, and a welcome Valentine gift for everyone who breathes second-hand smoke at work.'

NOTES TO EDITORS:

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Contacts:

Media enquiries: Ben Hurley T: 020 7467 1248; M: 07881 622416 ; E: bhurley@tuc.org.uk
Liz Chinchen T: 020 7467 1248; M: 07778 158175; E: media@tuc.org.uk

Press release (300 words) issued 14 Feb 2006