Smoking may be banned in London parks, squaresOctober 15, 2014 - 17:12 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Smoking should be banned in London parks and landmarks including Parliament Square and Trafalgar Square, a report by the London Health Commission said on Wednesday, Oct 15, according to AFP. The report found that 1.2 million Londoners smoke -- about 15 percent of the capital's population -- and that 67 of the city's schoolchildren are taking up the habit every day. "As a cancer surgeon working in the NHS (National Health Service), I see the terrible consequences for smokers and their families," said the report's author, Ara Darzi. "We must do more to help people quit and discourage kids from taking it up," said Darzi, who was presenting the report commissioned by London Mayor Boris Johnson. The recommendations, which will form the basis for new legislation, were endorsed by former New York mayor Michael Bloomberg, who banned smoking in the city's parks and beaches. Britain banned smoking in workplaces, including bars, clubs and restaurants, in 2007. The anti-smoking group ASH welcomed the report but Simon Clarke from the pro-smoking group Forest said a ban would be "outrageous". "If you don't like the smell, walk away," he said. The "Better Health for London" report also called for fast food advertising to be banned near schools, public transport discounts for people who walk part of the way to work and more measures to reduce air pollution. Related links: Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Viva-MTS: Tech solutions to modernize infrastructure of border village The border village has been the focus of Viva-MTS and the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Values since 2015. Ucom's fixed network launched in Artashat To mark this occasion, the company has introduced a special offer exclusively for Artashat residents. “By Your Side”: IDBank's new support program for displaced Artsakh citizens IDBank is launching a long-term social support program for forcibly displaced Artsakh residents. The Power of One Dram to benefit Road of Life charity The companies inform that the May beneficiary of The Power of One Dram is the “Road of Life” charitable organization. |