A RECENT report that says "smoke-free workplaces encourage smokers to quit or reduce how often they light up" is hardly rocket science.

If you make it impossible for people to smoke at work, of course they're going to smoke less.

The issue is one of choice. As long as smokers don't inconvenience non-smokers, employers must be allowed to devise a policy on smoking that best suits their business. Employers shouldn't be used to enforce someone else's anti-smoking agenda.

On behalf of the consumer, we advise companies to consult with their workforce and, where possible, introduce designated smoking rooms or install ventilation equipment to eliminate smoke drift from smoking areas. If, however, a company chooses to be even more tolerant of smokers, it should be free to do so.

Educating smokers to give up is one thing, forcing them to give up is something very different.

Josephine Gaffikin

FOREST (Freedom Organisation for the Right to Enjoy Smoking Tobacco)

13 Palace Street

London SW1E 6HX