Press

Health Minister Annika Strandhäll announced the centre-left coalition government's new legislative proposal to stub out smoking in certain public places. "We need to de-normalize the use of tobacco in the public space," Strandhäll told reporters. "I think it is reasonable that you should not have to be exposed to tobacco smoke in these kinds of places, such as platforms. Ninety percent of the population do not smoke," she said. Repeated polls have indicated that most Swedes back the idea of an extended smoking ban, with young people especially in favour of the plan. However, critics argue that a more extensive ban on smoking is a step too far in a country which already prohibits lighting up inside a wide range of places including bars, restaurants and shopping centres. - The Local -