France prepares to stub out smoking in cafes

0 Comments | AFP, December, 2007

PARIS (AFP) — French smokers have just a few more hours to indulge their habit in public before the country joins several of its neighbours on Wednesday in imposing a complete tobacco ban in bars, restaurants and nightclubs.

What was long regarded as a citizen's inalienable right comes to a definitive end just after the start of the New Year, and though some fear the demise of France's cherished cafe culture, few predict any serious opposition.

"The decree has been ready for more than a year. Everyone knows it is going to be applied. No one can say they've been duped," said Health Minister Roselyne Bachelot.

The outright ban follows February's prohibition of smoking in offices, schools, hospitals, stations, airports and trains, and places the country...