News

Stephen Crabb MP for ban on smoking in cars with children

Published

11 years ago

February 10, 2014

Stephen Crabb MP has confirmed that he will today vote in favour of an amendment to the Children and Families Bill, banning smoking in cars when children are present.

More than 700 health experts have written to MPs, urging them to back the measure which will make it illegal to smoke in cars carrying children in England from 2015. Medical professionals told MPs that smoking was a “major cause of ill-health in children”, arguing that smoking in cars exposes children to particularly “high amounts of tobacco smoke”.

Last week, Cancer Research UK published new statistics for Pembrokeshire revealing that nearly a quarter of all people in the County smoke. Their research showed that although the overall incidence of lung cancer in Pembrokeshire was similar to the Welsh average, the survival rate was slightly lower. The report also highlighted that in Wales, 16% of boys and 11% of girls smoke regularly by the age of 15.

Critics of the ban have argued that it could prove unenforceable and ineffective. However, Cancer Research UK have compiled evidence to show that laws do have an effect on people’s smoking habits. Their research tracks the marked decline in smoking at key junctures such as the 2007 smoking ban. Health campaigners also point out that bans on smoking in cars with children already exist in many countries including Australia, Canada, South Africa and the US.

Speaking from Westminster, Stephen said,

“I take a relatively liberal view on smoking but we’ve all become a lot more educated about the dangers of second-hand smoke.

Back in 2009 I was one of a minority of Conservative MPs who voted for a full ban on smoking in public places. I received a lot of criticism at the time but I don’t meet anyone these days who would want to go back to the days of smoking indoors in public spaces. Far fewer people smoke since that ban was introduced and I think it is right that we legislate to protect children from any other harmful, avoidable situations.

Although health matters are devolved to the Welsh Government, I am grateful to Cancer Research for sending me the Pembrokeshire statistics and I really hope that the Welsh Government will consider introducing similar measures to protect children in Wales.”

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

20 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

1 day ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

1 day ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!