Smoking in cinemas

I refer to the letter by Lucienne Pace, scientific officer at the Health Promotion Department (September 19).

We would like to note that the information in the letter is misleading and incorrect. We know that cigarette smoking in cinemas is not only illegal but also a health hazard and, thus, we absolutely forbid it, not only in the theatres but also in the foyers.

We are sure that all our patrons are aware of our no smoking policy since we advise them prior to each screening, by means of an on-screen notice, and do continuous checks in all theatres.

In the event that a patron is smoking all staff have clear instructions to request that the cigarette immediately be put out or the patron asked to leave the cinemas. We also encourage other patrons, should they see anyone smoking, to inform our ushers immediately.