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Smoking in Parliament - the new rules

SMOKING BAN: Where you can smoke

The ban on smoking in public places became law yesterday.
As a reminder, smoking is allowed on the Parliamentary estate only in
the following places:
  • The House of Commons Terrace when the smoking ban begins on July 1.
  • Commons Court (North West corner, Commons Court)
  • North Terrace (between Portcullis House and Norman Shaw South)
  • A designated area on the west side of Canon Row courtyard.

Smoking will be allowed in three designated areas in the House of Lords:
  • Black Rod's Garden
  • State Officers; Court
  • Peers' Inner Court.

Smoking will also be permitted in an area at the end of the Lords Terrace abutting the Commons Terrace, but this will be subject to review.

MPs and House staff who bring in visitors will be responsible for making sure their guests do not smoke - except in designated areas. If a visitor does smoke the passholder must inform them that a no smoking policy operates and ask them to stop.

If a visitor continues to smoke they should be asked to leave the premises. Passholders are told they may seek the help of Police or Security Officers.

Smoking is also banned in any vehicle that is provided by the House of Commons. It is the responsibility of the driver to ensure that passengers do not smoke.

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