ANTI-smoking campaigners have called on the Government to follow the lead of Ireland by introducing a complete ban on smoking in the workplace.

With smoke-free Ireland one-year-old on Tuesday ASH directors said it was time for Britain to move out of the halfway house of exemptions and adopt a tough line on the killer addiction.

Deborah Arnott, ASH director, said the Irish experience was one of resounding triumph, a popular law which needed little enforcement.

"The dire predictions of the drinks trade have proved false, but cigarette sales have fallen and public health is improving as a result. This experience shows that bold political moves can be successful and popular," she said.

"In this country, the halfway house of the public health White Paper - with its botched plans to exempt some pubs and private clubs - cannot stand."

Bolton Council is expected to begin moves this year to introduce a ban on smoking in public buildings in the town.