The UK smokers’ group Forest has condemned a call to ban the use of electronic cigarettes in bars and restaurants.
Responding to reports that the British Medical Association (BMA) wants the use of electronic cigarettes banned in enclosed public places to avoid the risk of ‘passive vaping’, Forest director Simon Clark said the BMA had taken leave of its senses.
“E-cigarettes are often used by smokers who are trying to quit,” he said.
“Banning vaping would be counter-productive because it would completely undermine the number one reason for switching to e-cigarettes.
“There’s no evidence that ‘passive vaping’ is a risk to anyone so bars and restaurants must be allowed to decide for themselves what their policy is.”
Clark said that once again the BMA had underlined its prohibitionist tendencies.
“Doctors should disown this ridiculous organisation before it brings the medical profession into disrepute,” he added.