Just under a quarter of Scots are more likely to visit pubs since the implementation of the smoking ban on 26 March, according to a new survey by Cancer Research UK.
The poll found that 24% of the 1,000 over-18s surveyed by the charity said they were more likely to visit pubs since the ban took affect, with only 10% less likely to do so.
According to the charity, the findings show that the ban would not lead to a loss in trade for pubs.
Jean King, director of tobacco control for Cancer Research UK, said: “This survey should reassure publicans still worried that the smoking ban will drive customers away.
“Making pubs and bars smoke-free gives workers the protection they deserve and creates a more appealing place to go to for your social drink with friends.”
At the same time, new figures from local authorities in Scotland show that out of 15,540 checked, 15,452 were upholding the new law, a compliance rate of 99.4%.
Pubs and bars had an 87.9% compliance rate, hotels 72.3%, and restaurants 71.7%, while only three fixed penalty notices had been issued in the premises inspected.
The figures also showed that a total of 73.7% of premises visited were displayed the necessary no smoking signs.
Andy Kerr, health minister in Scotland, said: ‘I am delighted the first month of the ban had compliance rates of over 99%. This shows the overwhelming majority of Scots have embraced the ban and improvements it will bring to health.”
Kerr also said it was an “interesting” suggestion by BMA Scotland, the doctors’ representative body, that the legal age to buy cigarettes in the country should by increased from 16 to 18.
Dr Peter Terry, chairman of the BMA Scotland, urged ministers to take the “bold step” to discourage youngsters from smoking.
