BUSINESSES in Kent have been given the chance to voice their opinions about plans to ban smoking in enclosed public places and in the workplace.

Caroline Flint, public health minister, has unveiled the proposals on how the legislation could work and launched a consultation to address the views of those most likely to be affected.

Dr Mike Gill, regional director of public health for the South East, welcomed the consultation.

He said: "It is important for us to hear from groups, particularly businesses, on the practicalities of implementing these proposals.

"By consulting on these details we hope to end up with fully workable measures which are welcomed by those who have to comply with the legislation."

But the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) says it is disappointed with the Government's proposals, claiming they should enforce a total and prompt smoknig ban in all enclosed workplaces.

Lawrence Waterman, IOSH president, said: "All employees have the right to work in safe and healthy working conditions and the Government should not be creating loopholes that will allow certain employers to avoid their responsibilities.

"The UK should be following the example of the successful total smoking ban in the Republic of Ireland.

"We urge all those interested in this important occupational health issue to respond to the consultation and to press for a more rapid and comprehensive ban."

Figures show that 28 per cent of people in the county smoke.