Comment on "Enforce ban on smoking" (China Daily, Dec 9)

I agree with the article. The ban on smoking in public places came into effect since January, 2011, but it has not been enforced strictly. Smokers are defying the ban with complete impunity.

Actually, it is not difficult to enforce the ban. Many people would be happy to help city administrators and volunteers to enforce the ban on smoking. Besides, people can help by calling a hotline when they see somebody smoking in non-smoking areas.

Admittedly, many Chinese don't have the right attitude toward negative behavior such as smoking in public places. They normally don't say anything to smokers, because they think it's none of their business.

The authorities should educate the public about the risk of exposure to second-hand smoke, and encourage them to be the eyes and ears of the administration. The public should realize that it has the right to tell smokers to stub out their cigarettes if they are found smoking in non-smoking areas, because it's good for one and all.

Anti-smoking, on China Daily website

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(China Daily 12/16/2011 page9)