SIR – As well as yet again destroying the economy and regulating small businesses out of trade, this government proceeds with still more draconian anti-smoking measures (T&A, February 6).

While we all wish to see fewer people smoking, these gimmicks do not really have any effect.

Banning adverts was the be-all: it wasn’t. Banning smoking in public places has assisted in driving many small establishments to the wall.

Yes, let’s ban hunting (but not fishing, as many Labour supporters do that), guns and any tobacco advertising.

Now you see the mentality which has the economy in its worst and longest-ever recession… no more boom and bust?

Yes, I see now, just bust and bust!

If public places and, in particular, licensed premises can afford a space for smokers, which would not interfere with those who dislike smoke, then there should be a compromise.

Good luck to MPs Greg Mullholland and Philip Davies, but I fear you will have to wait until after the election to find any open ears.

And for the record, I gave up in April 1993.

Councillor Roger Taylor (Con, Northowram and Shelf, Calderdale MBC) Glen Terrace, Hallifax