RESOURCES: Talking point - Should smoking be banned in publicplaces?

This month, the city of New York stepped up the war against the smoker.

It banned smoking in bars and restaurants. It is sometimes said that what happens in the US eventually comes to the UK. Could plans for a similar ban here lead to smoke-free pubs, clubs and restaurants? Would that be a good thing?

There is no doubt that smoking is bad for health. Lung cancer, bronchitis and emphysema are major smoking-related diseases. Smoking causes pain, suffering and early death to millions worldwide.

Do young people believe that is a good enough reason to ban something?

Or is the freedom of choice for smokers more important? Smoking has been a traditional part of the atmosphere in pubs and other social gatherings for centuries. Everyone knows what to expect and no-one has to go into a smoky atmosphere if they don't want to. What will we lose in fundamental freedoms if those who smoke in public places become criminals?