The majority of respondents to a consultation on banning smoking near hospital buildings support a 15-metre enforcement zone to protect people from the dangers of second-hand smoke.

A total of 559 people or organisations commented on the possible introduction of a legally-enforceable no-smoking area around hospital buildings. 72% of them agreed that 15 metres was a suitable distance.

The Scottish Parliament has already passed legislation to make it an offence to light up in no-smoking areas outside hospitals. [...]