Callers react to pub garden smoking ban plan | LBC

Summary

The transcript discusses the high taxes on cigarettes in the UK compared to Croatia, arguing that the tax revenue does not necessarily benefit the NHS. The conversation touches on the health risks of smoking, littering issues, and the responsibility of publicans to maintain cleanliness. It also debates the government's role in public health, suggesting a broader approach to harmful substances like alcohol and sugar, rather than focusing solely on smoking. The retired GP emphasizes the severe health consequences of smoking, with a significant number of smokers dying from smoking-related diseases.

Takeaways

• 💡 The price difference for cigarettes between Croatia and the UK is primarily due to tax, not manufacturing costs.
• 🚬 The high taxes on cigarettes in the UK are claimed to support the NHS, but the speaker questions whether it directly benefits the health service.
• 💸 The speaker argues that the tax revenue from cigarettes might be more than the healthcare costs they impose, suggesting smokers indirectly subsidize the NHS.
• 🤔 The speaker expresses sympathy for smokers struggling with addiction but also resents the litter they create.
• 🍺 The discussion extends to other public health issues like alcohol and sugar consumption, which also have significant impacts on the NHS.
• 🏖️ The speaker describes the littering behavior of smokers in public places, such as beer gardens and beaches, as 'disgusting'.
• 🚭 A suggestion is made to designate smoking areas in public places to mitigate the littering issue.
• 🚭 The speaker is not in favor of an outright ban on smoking in outdoor venues but acknowledges the rationale behind such measures.
• 🍹 The conversation highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to public health, addressing not just smoking but also alcohol and junk food.
• 👨‍⚕️ A retired GP emphasizes the high mortality rate among smokers, with 50% of them dying from smoking-related illnesses.

Q & A

How much can one save by purchasing cigarettes in Croatia compared to the UK, according to the speaker?

The speaker indicates that a packet of cigarettes costs five Kuna in Croatia, which is significantly less than the £17 they would pay in the UK.

What does the speaker believe is the primary reason for the high cost of cigarettes in the UK?

The speaker believes that the high cost is due to taxes, not the actual cost of the product, as the same brand and company are involved.

Does the speaker think the tax revenue from cigarettes goes directly to the NHS?

No, the speaker clarifies that while the tax revenue goes to the government, it does not necessarily go directly to the NHS.

What is the speaker's personal stance on smoking?

The speaker is a smoker who wishes they weren't and has tried to quit multiple times, acknowledging their addiction.

How does the speaker feel about the littering caused by cigarette butts?

The speaker expresses strong resentment towards the littering caused by cigarette butts, citing examples such as beer gardens and beaches.

What solution does the speaker propose for the issue of cigarette butts in beer gardens?

The speaker suggests designating a specific area of the beer garden for smokers, so that non-smokers can occupy the rest of the space.

What is the speaker's opinion on banning smoking outright in outdoor venues?

The speaker is not in favor of an outright ban but believes in providing alternatives and considering broader public health discussions, including alcohol and junk food.

What does the retired GP mention about the health risks of smoking?

The retired GP states that out of 100 smokers, 50 will die as a direct result of their smoking habit, indicating a significant health risk.

What is the speaker's view on the government's role in regulating smoking and other health risks?

The speaker believes that if the government is going to regulate smoking, it should also address other health risks like alcohol and junk food in a comprehensive manner.

What is the speaker's opinion on personal freedom regarding lifestyle choices like smoking?

The speaker values personal freedom and does not want everyone to be treated as if they are automatons, suggesting a nuanced view on lifestyle choices.

What is the speaker's stance on the argument that smokers subsidize the NHS through taxes?

The speaker disagrees with the argument, stating that the taxes paid by smokers do not necessarily benefit the NHS and that the health costs of smoking outweigh the tax revenue.