Up in Scotland we have had the smoking ban for a while now, and the best advice for licensees in England is: just get on with it (Caterer, 20 July, page 7).

Speak to your local planning department now about what you would like to do. Artists' impressions are a good way to show the planning department that what you have in mind is a good thing.

The problem about customers leaving drinks when smoking, or downing drinks too fast to go out for a smoke, hasn't happened here - but don't risk being fined or losing your licence by letting customers ignore the law.

The Government doesn't need to rethink the deadline - the licensed trade has plenty of time to comply with the new law and, when it does come in, it will be your responsibility to make sure that your customers comply with it.

Remember: it isn't just you, it's nationwide.

James Robinson
Bar 10, Glasgow, smoke-free Scotland

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