In proposals put before Parliament on Tuesday, the government of Prime Minister Tony Blair said it would seek a near-total ban on smoking in workplaces, restaurants and pubs that serve food. The prohibition, which follows similar actions by the authorities in places including Ireland and Scotland, New York and Norway, would be phased in between 2006 and 2008.
The only exceptions to the ban will be private clubs and pubs that do not serve food. But even in those establishments, smoking at the bar will be outlawed to protect employees from second-hand smoke
New York Times