On-the-spot fines for people caught smoking in cars with children

People in Wales could face a £50 on-the-spot fine if they are caught smoking in cars carrying children under new plans unveiled by the Welsh Government.

A six-week consultation on the plans is due to start today after first being announced by the First Minister Carwyn Jones and Health Minister Mark Drakeford back in July.

The move is aimed to protect the health of children and young people from the harm associated with exposure to second-hand smoke when travelling in private vehicles.

Watch: Smoking in cars carrying children could soon be banned

Under proposed changed to legislation in Wales, it could be an offence to:

• Smoke in a private vehicle when children under the age of 18 are present;

• As the driver of a vehicle, fail to prevent smoking in a private vehicle when someone under the age of 18 present.

It is intended that the change in the law will come into force in 2015. Welsh Ministers are also consulting about whether the Welsh Government should legislate in the future to prohibit the use of e-cigarettes in private vehicles carrying children under 18.