Do something positive to support our work

It is now five years since the introduction of the smoking ban in Scotland, and almost four years since it was introduced in the rest of the United Kingdom. They say time heals, yet many smokers remain angry and frustrated by the excessive nature of the ban which is out of tune with most of Europe where many governments have found a compromise that accommodates smokers without inconveniencing non-smokers.

and they want to do something about it. Although some smokers have adapted to the ban, many are appalled that the Coalition Government intends to continue the work of the previous Labour regime and its attempts to "denormalise" tobacco and coerce consumers to give up a perfectly legal habit.

Lobby your MP

If politicians don't hear from their constituents they won't know what you are thinking. So the best way you can help is by lobbying your MP in person or in writing. Tell them about the impact the smoking ban has had on you, your friends, and your local pub or club. 

Only write to your constituency MP. MPs get lots of letters. Letters from constituents will always get priority, and make sure that you personalise your letter as much as possible. MPs will generally ignore letters that appear to be part of an organised campaign. 

Better still, go and see your local MP. Most MPs hold regular surgeries in their constituency. Find out when they are and ask to see your MP face to face. The more people who contact their MP, the more they will sit up and take notice. 

Email
To find out who your MP and send them an email visit: www.writetothem.com

Post
To find out who your MP is visit: www.theyworkforyou.com

Letters should be sent to your MP at the House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA. Don't forget to request a reply.

Write to the media

Journalists won't write about the smoking ban – or other smoking-related topics – unless they think it's a "live" political issue. To maintain their interest in the smoking ban (which most journalists consider to be "old news"), you must keep writing letters about the impact of the ban and other tobacco control measures.

Note: keep letters for publication short and to the point.

Support our work

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