Smoking ban moves a step closer

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The ban on smoking in Northern Ireland's workplaces has moved closer after the bill was passed in the Lords.

Peers approved the Smoking (NI) Order without a vote after spending just 20 minutes debating it. A Commons committee had passed the Order in July.

The legislation also bans lighting up in pubs, clubs and restaurants from next April onwards.

Scotland has already banned smoking in enclosed public places, while England and Wales have a similar ban next year.