Firms face legal action over ill-health caused by passive smoking

PUBS, clubs and restaurants in Britain were yesterday warned they faced the threat of compensation claims from workers whose health is damaged by passive smoking.

Anti-smoking group ASH sent registered letters to 170 leading firms in the hospitality trade making it clear legal action will be taken on behalf of staff.

The group announced a tie-up with law firm Thompsons as part of a campaign to urge workers who believed their health had been harmed by inhaling smoke to seek compensation.