THE National Assembly should be given the power to introduce a ban on smoking in public places in Wales within three years, a report says today.

Tough new proposals would see smoking outlawed everywhere except for private homes and designated areas in hotel rooms, care homes, prisons and long-stay hospitals.

Assembly members want to see a ban because of "overwhelming" health grounds and say there is "no evidence" it would have a negative impact on the economy.

In 2003, AMs voted in favour of calling for the UK government to pass a Bill allowing the Welsh Assembly to enforce a ban. At present it does not have the legislative powers to do so. The Assembly established a five-member committee on smoking in public places last year.

It heard from a number of interests, including Welsh licensees, licensees in Ireland, where there is already a ban, the British Medical Association and economic experts.

The committee's report, published today, says a ban is needed for the protection of employees in the hospitality businees and the public.

Committee chairwoman Val Lloyd said: "I believe that our recommendations can make a significant impact on the health of the people of Wales."

She said it was now up to fellow Assembly members to endorse the report and lobby the UK government to give the Assembly legislative powers to enforce it.

Passive smoking increases the risk of lung cancer by some 20-30 per cent and the risk of coronary heart disease by 25-35 per cent, the BMA says.

Committee members were told by Licensed Victuallers (Wales) Ltd 50 per cent of the pubs in Wales would be at risk if a ban were introduced.

But the report says at least 21 per cent of pubs are struggling already because they are not viable.

The report recommends the ban is enforced by local authorities, and calls for a "concerted public information campaign" in the lead-up to its implementation.