After initially musing over where my allegiance lay on the smoking ban issue, I came to the conclusion that the non-smoker's right to a smoke free environment in an enclosed space was greater than the right to smoke. I was therefore pleased to see tonight, that a cross-party, 200 strong majority of MP's agreed with me and voted in favour of a ban in all pubs and clubs, including private members' clubs.

I'm sure we'll hear the usual 'nanny state' argument from certain quarters, surely the government though, have an obligation to protect and ensure the health of their people wherever possible, I think this is such an occasion. The research in to the health implications of passive smoking have shown there are strong links between those exposed to second hand cigarette smoke and heart disease. Not only this, but the ban will no doubt also reduce the number of smokers, especially those who only smoke socially.

From a purely personal point of view - I look forward to being able to go out and not come back smelling like an ashtray, indeed, it’s a shame we have to wait until summer 2007!