An MSP has launched a bill to prevent adults from smoking in cars whilst children are present in the vehicle.
If the bill passes motorists could face fines of up to £100 for smoking in cars and exposing youngsters to fumes. The bill, which has been launched by Jim Hume looks to improve the health of youngsters. He said “A shocking 60,000 children each week are exposed to second-hand smoke in vehicles.”
“This bill is about guaranteeing that children in Scotland can have the freedom to go on and lead healthy lives if they choose to.”
Wide Support For Motion
Dr Peter Bennie, chairman of the British Medical Association Scotland, said: “Smoking in vehicles is a source of concentrated second hand smoke, and as children are still developing they are at particular risk.
“The evidence for extending smoke-free legislation is compelling and we would encourage the Scottish Parliament to support the introduction of a ban on smoking in vehicles with children present.”
The bill will apply to any driver in a car with a passenger younger than 18 years-old.
The proposal has been greeted by many Scottish politicians and could be in place before the Scottish election in 2016. The ban has been supported by charities such as Cancer Research and the British Heart Foundation.
“Undermine Rights of Parents”
Despite the popular bill, some have criticised the move by the Scottish Government stating that it undermines the rights of parents.
Dr Stuart Waiton, has opposed to the move saying: “There’s a trend towards interfering in the family now. There’s a worrying trend towards undermining the rights of parents and undermining people’s privacy.”
Ruaraidh Dobson from the British Lung Foundation disagreed saying : “I think this is a very sensible, very moderate measure, that’s been shown to protect children from dangerous second-hand smoke.
“We all know second-hand smoke is bad and is particularly dangerous for children: they’ve got smaller lungs and breathe faster than adults.”
Countries such as Australia, Canada and South Africa have already passed legislation that prevents parents smoking in cars with youngsters.
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