HUDDERSFIELD MP Barry Sheerman today called for a ban on smoking in public places.

He urged new laws to protect workers in bars, clubs, restaurants and other workplaces.

The Labour MP said: "The Government should be acting far faster than it is."

He said measures were desperately needed to protect workers from passive smoking.

But the MP said he was not advocating a ban on smoking in the street.

"I don't want to lecture to smokers. They can do what they like in their own homes or in the open-air," he said.

Earlier this week the Government said a blanket ban on smoking in public places could not be justified at present.

Mr Sheerman is one of more than 100 MPs who are signing an early-day motion calling for legislation to be introduced as a matter of urgency.

He said: "International experience shows that voluntary agreements and codes do not work.

"From 1997, this Government has been timid, timid, timid on this issue - that has been their watchword."

The British Medical Association estimates that more than 1,000 people die prematurely in the UK every year from the effects of passive smoking.

An estimated 3m people are exposed at workplaces such as bars and restaurants.

Mr Sheerman said: "There are countries around the world that have grappled with the issue, come to a balanced decision and banned smoking in public places.

"Common sense and legislation works."

He revealed he had written to Roger Lyons, general secretary of Amicus, challenging the union's opposition to a ban on smoking.

In his letter he expressed his sadness at the union's position, saying: "More than three people every day die from passive smoking.

"Do workers not deserve to be protected from the poisonous smoke that they are currently forced to endure?"

Mr Sheerman said he was amazed that a smoking ban was not enforced inside the Queensgate market hall in Huddersfield.

Today, shoppers smoking in the market hall said they were unaware of a ban.

Only two of the five entrance doors have a notice saying that smoking is not allowed.

One of the signs is almost unreadable because it is so worn.

Kirklees Council Cabinet member Clr Andrew Pinnock, who is responsible for markets, said he would investigate.

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