Jonathan's Musings

Smokers face jail threat in Zambia
- M&G Online

Jeez! I wish our government (and associated laws) were as progressive!

Public smoking really bothers me! Just the other night I was at a popular restaurant which runs a quiz nite. I have been going there for ages and, every now and again there are a few guys who smoke inside, but it is not enough that it really bothers anyone. Most people are considerate enough to go outside or to sit in a designated smoking area.

On this particular night though, it seemed like every 4^th person in the place was smoking in both smoking and non-smoking areas! Ventilation was extremely bad (everything was closed as it was cold) and the situation was further exaggerated by the fact that there was this pseudo-undercover, mobile-vending team there who were selling cigarettes from handbags!

It created a terrible passive smoking environment, so much so, that I had to go outside for fresh air quite frequently and absolutely reeked of smoke when I got home! Not to mention that I had to shower again to get the smell out of my hair and had to dump my clothes outside my room so that they wouldn't stink the place out.

It really was a most unpleasant experience and while I think smoking in general is very inconsiderate of your fellow man, I hold the restaurant responsible as they have signs clearly stating that no smoking is allowed inside, but don't bother to enforce it! I have raised this with the manager so I hope the situation improves next week.

If not, we'll have to see what the local police have to say about the situation...