IN October, when ministers finally agreed a way forward on the highly contentious issue of smoking in pubs and clubs, we described the Government's thinking as "a fog of confusion".

The Cabinet, in struggling to come up with an agreement, had decided to ban smoking in enclosed public spaces in England, with exemptions for private clubs and pubs not serving food.

In other words, it was right to protect bar staff from the effects of fumes - but only some of them.

It is a ridiculous, confusing and cowardly stance to take.

The Government either believes it is right to ban smoking in pubs and clubs or it doesn't. It cannot have it both ways, even if it argues that a significant first step is being taken towards a total ban some time in the hazy future.

It is hardly surprising that the Commons health select committee came to the same conclusion yesterday, describing the plans for a partial ban as "unfair, unjust, inefficient and unworkable".

Let us have some clear leadership from the Government - not some half-hearted attempt at finding a compromise to appease Cabinet rebels and dampen down the inevitable outcry from smokers.

If smoking is to be banned in pubs and clubs, the legislation has to apply across the board. It is the only logical way to clear the air.