Scottish voters would support a ban on smoking in public places, according to a new poll.

Conducted by the BBC for the Your NHS programme on Wednesday, the survey found that 77 per cent of those questioned north of the border would back such a ban, compared to a UK average of 73 per cent.

The results were welcomed by anti-smoking group Ash.

"This poll shows that the public is demanding action to end smoking in the workplace and enclosed public places," said campaigner Ian Willmore.

"This is the single most effective thing the government could do is cut smoking rates and protect smokers and non-smokers alike."

Scottish Nationalist MSP for West of Scotland, Stewart Maxwell called on the Scottish executive to back his bill for a ban.

"This survey result shows once again the overwhelming support among the people of Scotland for a ban on smoking in regulated areas," he said.

"When 77 percent of those questioned support a ban within Scotland, a higher number than the UK as a whole, then it is surely time for action.

"This is a great opportunity for the Scottish executive to back my 'Prohibition of Smoking in Regulated Areas (Scotland) Bill'. Given Scotland's abysmal health record and the proven damage that second-hand smoke does to people's health this would be an important step toward improving the health of the people of Scotland and one that the executive should grab with both hands".

Public Health

The findings on smoking formed part of the wider survey on public health issues.

On tackling obesity, 84 per cent of Scottish voters wanted to see advertisements for fast foods and sweets banned from children's programmes, while 75 per cent wanted sweet machines removed from schools.

However, half of those questioned did not agree that higher taxes should be imposed on fatty foods.

The vast majority, 70 per cent, said they wanted to see government health warnings on bottles of alcohol.

Asked whether medical conditions resulting from smoking, drinking or obesity should be given a lower priority for treatment, 37 per cent agreed, while 63 per cent disagreed.