Smoking Ban is Met with Hostility in Horceracing Community
Racecourse officials have expressed disbelief following rumours that the UK government might expand the smoking ban to various outdoor spaces. The potential restrictions could cover areas like pub gardens, outdoor dining spots, and hospital, university, and sports ground exteriors. While racecourses weren't explicitly mentioned, many assume they would fall under this category, causing concern given that racecourse attendance has been declining, dropping from nearly six million in 2016 to 4.8 million in recent years.
When asked about the proposed restrictions, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer did not confirm or deny the reports but acknowledged that action was necessary to alleviate the burden smoking places on the National Health Service (NHS). However, the hospitality industry responded critically, fearing potential job losses as a result of such regulations. Kate Nicholls, chief executive of the UK hospitality trade body, warned that prohibiting smoking outdoors could severely impact businesses, recalling the widespread pub closures that followed the indoor smoking ban.
Outdoor Smoking Ban at Racecourses
Several racecourse leaders voiced their surprise and concern about the proposed ban. David Armstrong, CEO of the Racecourse Association (RCA), said his organisation would participate in any government consultation. James Sanderson, the CEO of Thirsk Racecourse, remarked that people tend to be considerate about smoking in public, and he couldn't recall any complaints during his 13-year tenure. He criticised the potential ban as overreaching, stating that the public doesn't need government interference to such a degree.
Industry Leaders Express Skepticism
Pat Masterson, managing director of Newton Abbot Racecourse, shared similar thoughts, arguing that some individuals enjoy smoking outdoors and questioning why the government would restrict this in open spaces. David Maykels, general manager at Leicester Racecourse, raised practical concerns about enforcement, particularly on busy days with thousands of visitors, such as Ladies' Day.
Aims to Create a 'Smoke-Free Generation'
The proposed outdoor smoking restrictions align with previous efforts to create a "smoke-free generation." During his tenure as Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak introduced the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which aimed to reduce smoking-related deaths by prohibiting the sale of tobacco to anyone born after January 2009. Though the bill was delayed due to the general election, it was reintroduced by the Labour Party during the King's Speech, signalling ongoing efforts to implement these measures.
Armstrong noted that while the lack of details made it difficult to assess the potential impact on racecourses, such a ban would be a significant shift. He emphasised that outdoor environments like racecourses should face fewer restrictions compared to other venues, as was the case during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also highlighted that individuals should retain the option to smoke in designated areas, given the gradual shift in smoking regulations over time.
Supporters and critics of the ban have shared their views. Some argue that smoking in outdoor spaces causes no harm, provided people are mindful of their surroundings. Others point out that banning smoking outdoors might be excessive, especially given the economic contributions smokers make through taxes. Proponents of the ban, however, focus on public health benefits, particularly for future generations.
If the new law passes, it will gradually raise the legal age for purchasing cigarettes each year, preventing those born in or after 2009 from ever legally buying tobacco. While current smokers will remain unaffected, the government plans to enforce the law through fines and penalties, with a portion of the funds reinvested in enforcement. By 2027, the UK aims to fully implement this system, with efforts to collaborate across the devolved governments of Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland to ensure consistency in tobacco regulations.