STRATFORD District Council is calling for laws to make all public places and workplaces smoke-free within two years.

The council has responded to government consultation on the Health Improvement and Protection Bill, after scooping National Clean Air Awards for its headquarters and area offices.

Councillor Hazel Wright, portfolio holder for social inclusion, said people working in the hospitality industry were particularly at risk.

"We are looking for a comprehensive smoke-free law to be in place by spring/ summer 2007," she said.

"We now have a duty to improve and protect public health so anything that tackles smoking is going to benefit everyone.

"We will also be pushing for appropriate penalties for breaching the regulations to reflect the serious threat to health," she added.