BT is banning its 85,000 staff from smoking in any company building or vehicle.

The edict comes into force next month and follows the UK government's decision last week to ban smoking in English and Welsh pubs.

BT offices are already smoke-free although smoking rooms are provided. About one in three BT staff currently smoke, according to the BBC.

Some shelters will remain outside buildings, but BT will work to help staff to give up. The company will also try and encourage staff outside the UK to give up smoking.

Anti-smoking group ASH welcomed the news and said companies should take action before the law comes into force next year. ASH believes companies will see the benefits in reduced sick days.

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