A bill banning smoking at indoor public places will be tabled at the Legislative Council in May.

This was the message today from Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food Dr York Chow meeting visiting Canadian Minister of Health Ujjal Dosanjh who shared Canada's experience in tobacco control.

Dr Chow said: "We have learnt from experience that the best way is to go for a full ban in indoor working places. We will be sending a bill to the Legislative Council in May to tighten tobacco control. Key proposals include a ban on smoking in indoor workplaces and public places, including restaurants, bars and karaokes with no exemption. The bill will also set more restrictions on the promotion of tobacco products."

Dr Chow feels the legislation will be passed as there is strong public support for banning smoking in all enclosed areas.

"There will be objection from certain sectors. However, with the experiences of Canada, Ireland, New Zealand and Italy, you know it has worked and it should work for Hong Kong too," he said.