New law bans smoking in cars with children

Saturday 02 November 2024

A new law is now live that has made it illegal to smoke in cars carrying children in Guernsey.

The legislation, approved by the States on Wednesday, aims to protect children from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke. Offenders could face a £125 fine, reduced to £115 if paid promptly.

Health & Social Care proposed the legislation and successfully lobbied for its approval.

Dr Nicola Brink, Director of Public Health, warned of the dangers of second-hand smoke, especially in confined spaces like cars.

“Second-hand smoke inside cars is particularly dangerous because the concentration of cancerous toxins is often greater than in any other micro-environment. There is no safe level of exposure to second-hand smoke, particularly for children in cars who have no control over the environment in which they’re placed.

“Legislative measures to create smoke free environments for children and young people not only protects their health but will also reduce the likelihood that they will take up smoking themselves.”

Health & Social Care President Deputy Al Brouard said: “The committee is pleased that this legislation has been approved by the Assembly, which will protect children and young people from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke.

“This new law is evidence-based on the risk of exposure to tobacco toxins and brings Guernsey into line with other jurisdictions. The Committee for Health & Social is committed to providing environments for good health, including improving the health of children and young people.”

The new law aligns with various health initiatives in Guernsey and further afield, including the Partnership of Purpose, Combined Substance Use Strategy, the Children and Young People's Plan, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

If the 2025 Budget is approved next week, tobacco duty will rise both with inflation as well as another 10% in line with health strategies.