| ■ England's Smoking Ban Goes Into Effect | 07.07.09 |
| A ban on smoking in public buildings in England, including pubs, restaurants and even Buckingham Palace, began Sunday, the Associated Press reported. Taxi and delivery drivers also face a £50 fine if they light up inside their cars, the wire service said. Newly appointed Health Secretary Alan Johnson said, "A smoke-free country will improve the health of thousands of people, reduce the temptation to smoke and encourage smokers to quit." Public smoking was already banned in the rest of the United Kingdom. Wales and Northern Ireland instituted the ban in April and Scotland did so last year. The Republic of Ireland made the move three years ago. |