I’ve always believed that smokers are weak people who lack confidence and rely on substances to prop themselves up.
Unfortunately, they’re often oblivious to the harm their smoke causes to others. Moreover, they set a poor example for their children who go on to become addicts themselves, burning a significant amount of money on cancer-sticks – approximately £4,000 per year, which could be better spent on holidays.
Many smokers deceive themselves into thinking they can quit whenever they want, yet they can’t provide a valid reason for continuing to smoke. Some even shamelessly disregard no-smoking signs, arguing about their placement or the direction of the wind. Those who smoke at pub or restaurant entrances could care less about the non-smoking customers these businesses might be losing.
On a more positive note, the ban on smoking on the London Underground after the 1987 King’s Cross fire has led to a lucrative business in selling no-smoking signs. However, this doesn’t change the fact that smokers pose a significant burden on the NHS and should be held accountable.
In my opinion, the government should take stricter measures, forget all the taxes it collects on cigarettes and be brave enough to impose an all-out ban on the sale and duty-free importation of tobacco. Smoking in any public place, along streets and any private backyard where smoke could drift into neighboring spaces, should be made a criminal offense bordering on terrorism. By taking these steps, we can protect non-smokers and promote a healthier environment.
~ utopiatimes 1997
An Investment in Education 