Jersey bans smoking in cars with children present

Jersey has taken action on smoking in cars

It will be illegal to smoke in a car with children under the age of 18 in Jersey under new laws.

It is part of a States strategy to reduce the harm caused by breathing in second-hand smoke.

Deputy Peter Mclinton, Assistant Health Minister, said the ban would be in the best interests of all.

Martin Knight, head of health improvement, said about 1,800 young people in Jersey were exposed to second-hand smoke each week.

The legislation to ban smoking in cars with children was approved unanimously by the States of Jersey on Tuesday and will be in force from 1 September.

Mr Knight said: "Children are particularly vulnerable to second-hand smoke, but often do not have any choice in whether they are exposed."

About 20% of people in Jersey smoke, and there is already a ban on smoking in enclosed places.

Drivers aged 17 will not be allowed to smoke at the wheel.

To support the regulations, a smoke-free cars campaign will be launched on Monday 8 June.