Anti-tobacco drive does not impress smokers

Smoking bans appear to have little impact on the number of smokers according to a survey by the Federal Health Office.

Despite moves by the federal and cantonal authorities to outlaw smoking in public buildings and restaurants nearly three out of ten respondents said they smoked.

The number of smokers remained unchanged compared with 2006, with 33 per cent of men and 24 per cent of women saying they were tobacco consumers.

However, the number of those wanting to kick the habit rose marginally to 54 per cent.

The survey – funded by a tobacco prevention fund and published on Monday – is based on 2,500 interviews.

In a related move, the health authorities have launched a new series of anti-smoking posters and adverts.

Officials said the aim was to encourage tobacco consumers to reduce health hazards.

About 1,900 companies have pledged to provide smoke-free work places for a total of 200,000 employees as part of a campaign that started in 2006.