Outdoor smoking ban: How it works in Australia and what it could mean for UK

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer says his government is looking at tightening outdoor smoking rules.

In Australia , smoking and e-cigarettes are banned in many outdoor public areas, including within 10 m of playgrounds, in all commercial outdoor dining areas and a 4 m zone beyond that, and in public transport stops.

At pubs in Australia , designated smoking sections or zones are set up to protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke.

While some pubs have big beer gardens, many don’t have any outdoor space so so the outdoor smoking section is relegated to gambling.

Daily smoking rates in Australia are now down to 8.3% - from 16% in 2000 and 24% in 1991 .

Health authorities were concerned about the impact of secondhand smoke, when a non-smoker breathes in smoke exhaled by others.

In Australia , authorities focused on regulating pub gardens and outdoor dining to help tackle the problem.

The World Health Organisation has come to a similar conclusion, labelling the economic harm argument a myth’ and pointing to data that suggests smoke-free policies have a positive long-term impact on the sector.

Ms Freeman also points out that the vast majority of people don't smoke - 65% of people aged over 14 have never smoked.