MP Barry Sheerman today stepped up his campaign for a ban on smoking in public places.
He spoke out after claims that most people - including non-smokers - did not want a ban in pubs, clubs and bars.
The Tobacco Manufacturers' Association (TMA) said there were more than 18,000 regular smokers in Huddersfield, about 1,500 of whom worked in restaurants and pubs.
Mr Sheerman said: "It is surprising the association would use these figures to support their position.
"It is exactly these kind of numbers that illustrate why the ban is needed in the first place.
"The demand for choice by a minority should not take priority over the health and quality of life of the majority of people in Huddersfield."
New Government legislation would ensure the right to live and work in a healthy, smoke-free environment.
Tim Lord, the TMA's chief executive, said: "The public want choice, not a complete ban."
His association supports a voluntary approach to creating more no-smoking areas.
