I was distressed to read about the irresponsible joint statement issued by Councillor Brian Oxley and Conservative social care spokeswoman Ann Norman opposing the proposed ban on smoking in enclosed public places (The Argus, August 12).

Passive smoking-related illnesses have caused untold human suffering and death over the years, one prominent example being the late Roy Castle, a non-smoker who contracted lung cancer through having to play in smoke-filled nightclubs and other entertainment venues.

Even the Americans, who are great upholders of individual liberty and business enterprise, have seen the necessity not only of placing a ban on smoking in enclosed places but also of banning the sale of tobacco to those under 18 years of age.

I have not heard that the American catering trade has been brought to the verge of ruin by these restrictions.

Furthermore, the statement that "the great thing about Brighton and Hove, and the quality people treasure, is you can be who you want to be in this city" is a fallacy.

If this is true, why ban drinking in public places, have noise and parking restrictions and other ordinances for the public good?

The answer is that, in a civilised society, we have to consider other people as well as ourselves and their right to go to public places and breathe clean air without their health being put at risk.

-Rev John Webster, Hove