Brighton and Hove City Council could soon be handed the powers it needs to ban smoking in public.

Government ministers are to consult on whether to allow councils to outlaw lighting up in pubs, clubs, restaurants and shopping centres.

The controversial proposal will be made in a Health White Paper, due to be published later this year.

The move has already been the subject of heated debate, with Brighton and Hove Primary Care Trust leading calls for a ban.

At present there is no legislation to ban smoking in public places.

The only option is to try to introduce a local bylaw.

Under the Government plan, councils would be able to ban smoking in public places if they proved there was demand for such a scheme.

Prime Minister Tony Blair has ruled out a national ban, arguing decisions should be taken "locally".

Critics claim the Government is trying to introduce a national ban by the "back door".

In addition to Brighton and Hove, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Newcastle and Bristol are also considering prohibiting smoking.

Pat Karney, of the Tobacco Free Alliance, said it was hoped the six cities would simultaneously introduce a ban.

The Department of Health denied it was attempting to ban smoking by stealth.

It said there was an argument for allowing local authorities to take action.

A spokesman said: "This is a genuine consultation and we want to hear what people have to say."

Chief medical officer Sir Liam Donaldson supports a nationwide ban.

Researchers in Vancouver, Canada, said the number of people smoking fell from 22 per cent to 15 per cent when it was outlawed there.