I am disappointed that our Tory Councillors have so categorically opposed a ban on smoking in pubs and restaurants in Brighton.

They talk about infringing civil liberties.

When my wife and I treat ourselves to an occasional meal out, only to have it spoilt by people smoking nearby, we are less concerned about civil liberties than the effect the smoke is having on our meal.

Go into most Brighton pubs and you will probably find that most people are smoking.

That isn't an indication that the majority of the public support smoking in pubs. It's because people who don't smoke are reluctant to go in.

Many pubs have become virtual no-go areas for non smokers.

In America, where such a ban exists, it is a pleasure to be able to enjoy a meal or a drink without being engulfed in smoke.

There the ban on smoking has done the hotel/drinks trade no harm at all and has probably greatly increased public health.

The council should look to make our city a cleaner, healthier place to be and a ban on smoking in public places is the biggest single act which could bring this about.

-Michael Benson, Saltdean, Brighton