Smoking banned from all viewing areas of World Cup Stadiums

Smoking will not be allowed in the viewing areas of stadiums hosting ICC Cricket World Cup 2003 matches. Dr Ali Bacher, Executive Director of CWC 2003, and Peter Ucko, Director of the National Council Against Smoking, made this announcement today.

Spectactors wishing to smoke may do so in open areas behind the seated areas.

Dr Bacher said: "Smoking will not be permitted in any pavilion, boxes, stands or embankments from which play can be watched. We want spectators to enjoy all the matches in the most comfortable and congenial circumstances possible."

Dr Bacher said that when discussions began between himself and Peter Ucko in August last year, he immediately supported the principle. "This decision is in line with the international trend of smoke-free stadiums at the Olympic Games and the FIFA World Cup."

Mr Ucko said he was delighted with the decision. "The enjoyment of the matches will be enhanced by this policy of protecting the comfort and health of spectators."