Hong Kong has decided to outlaw smoking in bars and restaurants, joining in the worldwide campaign against tobacco.

Local legislators voted overwhelmingly in favor of the ban and the measure was also backed by Hong Kong's health chief York Chow.

Legislation should be in place by next summer. The law will cover all public places, including bars, restaurants, factories and offices.

But hospitality industry figures opposed the ban saying it would deter customers.

The new law would also include more anti-smoking campaigns among youngsters in a bid to reduce deaths caused by smoking-related illnesses in Hong Kong.

(CRI October 22, 2004)