'400,000 children in smoky cars'

HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS of children travel in smoke-filled cars every week, a charity has warned.

The British Lung Foundation (BLF) estimates that in England more than 430,000 children aged 11 to 15 are exposed to second hand smoke in cars each week.

The charity, which conducted analysis on official NHS data, said that 185,000 children of the same age are exposed to smoke while in the family car on "most days", if not every day. The figures have been released as the House of Lords prepares to debate on a ban on smoking in cars where children are present as part of an amendment to the Children and Families Bill.

Dr Noel Snell, director of research at the British Lung Foundation, said: "These shocking new figures clearly highlight the extent to which children are still being exposed to second-hand smoke when travelling in a car.

"Given these data only cover children aged between 11 and 15, it is possible that the total number of children affected on a weekly basis could be in excess of half a million.

"Since the BLF began its campaign in 2010, we've had overwhelming support - including the House of Lords who have previously voted in favour of a ban. We hope that these findings will further encourage them to show their support."

But pro-smoking group Forest said that new legislation would be "disproportionate to the problem". Forest director Simon Clark said: "According to surveys, only a very small number of adults still smoke in cars with children present. It's inconsiderate and most adults recognise that."

By Ella Pickover, Press Association