I might be mistaken, but I thought that it was already illegal in Thailand to smoke in air-conditioned places. Perhaps someone should tell the Ministry of Public Health that, because it looks like they have banned smoking in entertainment venues for a second time.

The ban is set to roll into effect on February 17 and has about as much chance of being universally enforced as I do of representing Great Britain in freestyle diving at the 2008 Olympics.

Smoking will even be banned at JJ Market, as well as all pubs and clubs. Dr Hatai Chitanond of the ministry’s Health Promotion Institute said, “We believe there will be some resistance from operators of nightclubs and pubs because they may fear the ban will reduce their customers. I’m willing to talk to them more about the ban if they rally.” (Bangkok Post)

Good luck with that one then.