North school pupils back smoking ban - report

An overwhelming number of children in Northern Ireland support a ban on smoking, a report revealed today.

A survey carried out by an educational website found that almost 85 per cent of children between 11 and 16 believed smoking should be banned in public places.

The study follows last month's announcement that legislation in the North may follow the lead of the Irish Government in bringing in a ban on lighting up in public places.

Northern Ireland Health Minister Ms Angela Smith said the public would be consulted about strategies to deal with the dangers of second-hand smoke, which would include a possible ban in public places and workplaces.

PA