ACT MP Penny Webster today launched a petition calling on the Government to abandon legislation that would force bars to segregate smokers from non-smokers.

"ACT New Zealand will vote against the supplementary order paper of the Smokefree Environment (Enhanced Protection) Amendment Bill.

"People can already choose whether they attend bars and cafes which allow smoking. In fact, many bars around the country are smokefree by choice. It is the right of business owners to make decisions concerning their premises.

"I surveyed almost 900 bars, cafes and restaurants, and found that ninety per cent of respondents want this draconian legislation halted.

"The Government never bothered to consult with bar owners who will face crippling bills if these laws go ahead.

"New Zealanders have had enough of the Government interfering in every aspect of their lives," Penny Webster said.

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