FORMER smoker Kitty Ussher will be backing a total ban on lighting up in pubs, clubs and restaurants in a key vote tonight.

The Burnley MP will support her former boss Health Secretary Patricia Hewitt in a move to outlaw smoking in public places in a free vote in the House of Commons.

She will choose it over the original plan to ban smoking in just licensed premises where food is served.

Ms Ussher worked as a political adviser to Mrs Hewitt when she was Trade Secretary.

Ms Ussher said: "I am pleased the Government recently announced it would be allowing a free vote on this issue and I have decided to vote for a complete ban.

"I believe that the other alternative, a ban only where food is served or prepared, is an impractical compromise.

"We will also vote on whether private clubs could be granted an exception from the ban.

"Having considered this very carefully and after listening to the views of many of my constituents I have decided to vote for a ban in private membership clubs as well. The staff of these clubs deserve as much protection as the staff in other workplaces.

"A total ban will reduce the harmful effects of second hand smoke, saving thousands of lives by reducing deaths and diseases caused by smoking.

"It will also help smokers who are trying to quit by creating an environment in which it is easier to do so.

"And for all those people who want to give up deep down, I hope this will make it easier."