National No Smoking Day
8 Mar 2006Today is the last National No Smoking Day before Scotland's smoking ban is introduced later this month.
Health Minister Andy Kerr said:
"There has never been a better time to stop smoking. From 26 March 2006 Scotland will be smoke-free. As well as protecting people from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke this far-reaching and ambitious step will help many people to give up smoking. Evidence from Ireland and New York proves this.
"I know how difficult it is to stop smoking but it is the best decision a smoker can make. Stopping smoking is not only good for the health of the individual but Scotland as a whole. That is why we are investing record levels of funding - £11 million by 2007/8- in services to support people who want to give up. Improved services in communities across Scotland - combined with the introduction of the ban - make 2006 the best year yet to give up.
"A smoke-free Scotland will have a healthier future. A future where Scots live longer, families stay together longer and our young people are fitter and better prepared to make the most of their ambitions.
"It is a future that we can all look forward to and Scotland should be proud that it's leading the way in the UK."