About 10,000 people, mainly tobacco sellers, marched through Paris on Wednesday to protest the smoking ban in cafes that will go into effect in January.

The demonstrators want a modification to the law which bans smoking in all cafes, restaurants and nightclubs as of 1 January 2008 so that smoking rooms with ventilation can be set up in their establishments. Tobacconists fear they will lose clients unable to have a cigarette with their coffee and will lose money on other products typically sold in cafes tabacs – cafes where cigarettes can be bought. The tobacconists, joined by members of cigar clubs and teahouse owners, argue that the changes they are seeking would respect the spirit of the law.
The first phase of the smoking ban went into effect this past February with the prohibition of smoking in workplaces, schools, airports, hospitals and other 'closed and covered' public places such as train stations. (pi)