Wales Set To Ban Smoking On Stage

Wales is to follow Scotland's lead and outlaw smoking on stage when a full ban comes into force next April.

Despite lobbying from the arts world, including the Theatrical Management Association, the Welsh Assembly took the decision not to allow a clause to be inserted into its legislation as in England, where smoking on stage will be permitted as part of performance "if artistic integrity makes it appropriate". Wales' ban on smoking in enclosed public places comes into force on April 2, three months ahead of England.

The TMA had argued that a ban would "unnecessarily and unjustifiably" affect full performance and accurate interpretation of writers' intentions, while fears have also been expressed that it could dissuade certain touring productions from visiting Wales.

By www.theatre-wales.co.uk