Two weeks ago, Caterer began to canvass readers on the Government's proposals for a partial ban on smoking in the workplace. In that time, we have received more than 60 replies, with 75% backing our stance that the Government's solution is unworkable and impractical.

Tricia Harper, co-owner of the Old Cottage restaurant in Ringwood, Hampshire, said that a total smoking ban would provide a more level playing field for all businesses and make the laws easier to understand. "Surely," she said, "there should be no exceptions. Or are those working in pubs where food is not served considered more expendable?"

Many respondents stressed that hospitality workers shared the same rights to work in a smoke-free environment as members of other professions.

Adam Beasley, senior manager of the students' union at Queen Margaret University College, Edinburgh, said that something needs to be done now to protect his health.

He said: "I am informed that, during an eight-hour shift, I will have inhaled the equivalent smoke of 10 cigarettes. If I am subjected to these working conditions in the long term, I can see many more of us ending up with the same fate as the late Roy Castle endured."

Non-smoker Castle, a highly popular entertainer, died of lung cancer in 1994, having blamed his disease on second-hand smoke inhaled during a career working in pubs and clubs.

We want more readers to write in and tell us what you think about the Government's plans. Click here to join the debate.