The German government has proposed a watered-down ban on smoking in public places, that would outlaw lighting up in nightclubs but not bars and pubs. 

Under the proposals, which would take effect in July 2007 if the German parliament approves, restaurant customers would be still allowed to smoke, but only in rooms that are separated by a door.

More than a quarter of Germany's entire population, about 22 million people, smoke, according to a 2005 study.

The smoking ban will bring Germany, Europe's biggest tobacco market, closer in line with the 13 of 25 European Union states to have introduced legislation to outlaw smoking in public places. 

Malta, Ireland and Norway introduced bans in 2004, followed a year later by countries including Italy and Sweden. 

A ban on smoking in public places in England and Wales including all pubs and private clubs comes into force in mid-2007, while France, Finland and Belgium all plan to tighten existing anti-smoking legislation next year. 

Proposals for a similar compromise in England and Wales – which would have banned smoking in pubs and clubs but not private members clubs - were thrown out by the UK government after pub operators demanded a level playing field.

England smoking ban set for 1 July start >>

Smoking ban round up >>

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Smoking ban research shows dramatic health improvements in Scotland >> 

By Daniel Thomas

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