The European Commissioner for Health is working on proposals which could result in a ban on smoking in bars, cafés and restaurants across Europe.

Ireland and the Netherlands have already decided to impose such a ban and the EU Commission wants other member countries to follow suit.

The commission does not have the legal power to instruct countries on their policies on tobacco but its lawyers consider that they can push through the proposal as a health and safety measure aimed at protecting employees from passive smoking.

Such a route merely requires a majority vote amongst member states, rather than the acceptance of all of them.

Although anti-smoking groups have welcomed the suggested legislation – which may not come into force for some years – it will face fierce opposition from the hospitality and tobacco industries. Both have said it could lead to large numbers of job losses and a drop in profits.