Bingo halls in Wales are having trouble to stay in business due to the negative effects of the smoking ban. Many bingo operators have already reported a decrease in profits of up to 20 percent. Tony Willis, Crystal Bingo general manager, said revenue dropped about 25 percent, in spite of special promotions aimed to lure players.

“We are getting through it now, but the winter will be the worst. Our customers have put up with the rain the last few weeks but it has not been cold,” Willis explained. "Everyone is waiting with bated breath to see how things turn out in England. We've already heard of a bingo hall is closing in Gloucester.”

On the other side, members of the Welsh Assembly Government defended the ban by saying it is good for people’s health. “The reception of the smoking ban in enclosed public places has been positive, reflecting feedback from the public and businesses,”
Dr. David Salter, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Wales said.

Besides bingo halls, pubs and clubs are also concerned about the impact of the smoking ban. Many of them say customers have been driven away by the ban and they are struggling to keep their business running.