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Actors could escape smoking ban

Actors may be exempted from the smoking ban in England if lighting up on stage or in front of the cameras is key to their performance, officials say.

Characters like Absolutely Fabulous's chain-smoking Patsy would potentially not be able to smoke on set or on stage if this summer's ban goes ahead.

Theatres also argued they would not be able to portray historic figures like the cigar-smoking Winston Churchill. Exemptions are now being considered where smoking is integral to the plot.

Draft legislation has been laid before parliament to amend the Health Act 2006 to include certain exemptions. These relate to part 2 of the Act which defines the areas classed as smoke-free, including this section:-

Performers

6. Where the artistic integrity of a performance makes it appropriate for a person who is taking part in that performance to smoke, the part of the premises in which that person performs is not smoke-free in relation to that person during his performance’

A spokesman said: The government is considering providing a specific exemption from smoke-free legislation to ensure that smoking can take place on stage during live theatrical performances, or during film and television recording.

He added:

Details of the exemption will be set out in the regulations which will be consulted on over the summer.

We will be consulting with the theatre industry on what they consider integral to the plot.

Public Health Minister Caroline Flint is writing to the industry on the issue.

A spokesman for Action on Smoking and Health said he did not oppose the exemption.

He said: What we want to see is a complete ban on smoking in enclosed work places so any exceptions should be very tightly drawn.

For detailed information visit the Department of Health website for The Health Act 2006, chapter 28, Smoking. Document 2006 No.3368

Information collated by Chris Lane