Written question asked by Lord Grayling (Conservative) on Tuesday, 15 July 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 1 September 2003. It was answered by Gerry Sutcliffe (Labour) on Monday, 1 September 2003 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what her policy is on employers providing smoking breaks in smoke-free workplaces.

Answer: Chris Grayling: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what her policy is on employers providing smoking breaks in smoke-free workplaces. [126837] Mr. Sutcliffe: There is no statutory entitlement to receive smoking breaks in any workplace. However, the Working Time Regulations provide workers with a 20-minute in work rest break if they work for more than six hours at a stretch. Young workers are entitled a 30-minute in work rest break if they work for more than four and a half hours at a stretch. There are no plans to amend the Working Time Regulations to require employers to provide smoking breaks in smoke- free workplaces.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 126837; 409 c707W
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Conditions of employment Health and safety Working conditions Working hours Smoking
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk