Nice's proposal comes ahead of the smoking ban on 1 July and would see employees who smoke allowed to attend the clinics during working hours, without loss of pay. Campaigns Manager of the FPB, Victoria Carson, has reservations.  

"For some businesses, there may be a business case for letting their staff take time off to attend such a clinic. In those instances, it should be done on a quid pro quo basis, where the worker repays the cost of the time off to the employer, should s/he continue smoking." 

It must be remembered, however, that many businesses will find this suggestion completely impractical and of no benefit. They are the firms that must not be forced to take up such a scheme." 

Businesses will find themselves footing the bill for changing the work environment, erecting signs and removing smoking areas. They could also face the possibility of a fine if errant employees or customers flaunt the ban. The extra costs of disrupting their workforce, cutting productivity whilst workers take time off for help, which may not work, may be one step too far for many. 

Nice believes that, by helping workers to quit, businesses will actually save money based on the increased productivity. Ms Carson said the nature and extent of the support must be closely controlled for any firm that wishes to offer the opportunity to workers.  

"Where do we draw the line?" she continued. "What provisions would be put in place if the clinics fail to help the employee? Many smokers struggle to quit and businesses must not be left with a growing bill."  

The FPB has an alternative suggestion for Nice, as Ms Carson explained. 

"Why doesn't the NHS, using the savings made in the cost of healthcare by the smoking ban, set up evening smoking clinics out of work hours?" 

The FPB also believes the suggestion from Nice could damage the working relationships between smoking and non-smoking colleagues.