Number of Spanish smokers unchanged by 'anti-smoking laws'

 

The latest Eurobarometer survey has revealed that there are now more smokers in Spain than before the anti-smoking legislation came into effect in 2006.

The research statistics detail how 35% of Spaniards still smoke despite trend throughout the rest of Europe where the average number of smokers has fallen over recent years to 29%. This also means that if the Government was hoping that the 2006 law would reduce the number of Spanish smokers, it has not had the desired effect. New tougher changes to current legislation are due to take effect later this year, meaning that banning smoking in all closed public spaces including all bars and restaurants.

The Eurobarometer research surveyed 1000 people, and also found that 52% of the unemployed are smokers, but that only 17% of over 55's smoke.

The results also revealed that 61% of Europeans don't allow smoking in their homes, and that most people are in favour of the new images on cigarette packs.