Leader readers have shared their thoughts on whether smoking should be banned outsides all pubs, cafes and restaurants in Wales.

Earlier this week, the Welsh Government announced its proposed plans to ban smoking in the outdoor seating areas of pubs, cafes and restaurants, which if given the go-ahead, could come into force during the next Senedd term.

New legislation that will see all smoking in hospital grounds and schools being banned under the Public Health (Wales) Act in a bid to protect the public from secondhand smoke, as well as to de-normalise smoking in the eyes of young people, will come into force shortly.

Here is what some of our readers had to say...

One reader, Janet Law, said: "I would love it to banned even outside pubs, as there's nothing worse than secondhand smoke."

However, one concerned reader, Carl Harrison, added: "It could be the final nail in the coffin for some small businesses that are already struggling after lockdown.

"People, even casual weekend smokers, who like one when they have a drink will be put off going."

The Leader:

Carol Fellows said: "Just have separate outdoor smoking areas.

"The pubs and clubs need a boost, as otherwise they will all soon close forever."

One disgruntled reader, Del Williams, said: "I'm an ex-smoker and as much as I hate smoking, this could be the final nail in the coffin for a lot of pubs.

"Like most things that come out of Cardiff, it's ill thought out."

David Williams echoed: "The final nail in the coffin for already struggling pubs."

Vera Rushton branded the proposed plans as 'ridiculous' as it could be the 'final blow' to Welsh jobs and its economy, as many people will just 'hop over the border'.

However, one reader, Petula Southern, expressed their support for the proposed plans becoming a reality by stating that smoking should just be 'banned altogether', with another reader, Clive Parry, adding that it is a 'brilliant idea' that should be enforced in all public places.

Many readers shared similar concerns regarding the potential impact that the ban could have on businesses, with Maureen Griffiths stating that it could result in 'more pubs closing' if given the go-ahead, with Colin Harper adding that the Government have somewhat seemed to have 'forgotten' that banning smoking inside made 'hundreds of pubs die', and they should be supporting small local businesses right now not 'throwing more and more problems in their faces.'

What are your thoughts on banning smoking outside pubs, cafes and restaurants in Wales? E-mail us at news@leaderlive.co.uk