The ban comes in in March 2008

Proposed rules banning smoking in public places on the island are similar to those adopted in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

But unlike their regulations, the Isle of Man is not planning to seek an exemption for prisoners when the ban comes in on 30 March 2008.

The ban would be brought in at the new Isle of Man Prison in Jurby.

Home affairs Minister Martyn Quayle MHK said: "The Department considered a total ban was the right policy to adopt in the current climate and is not planning to seek an exemption under the regulations.

"Both the Members and I are aware that this sets a timescale for a smoking ban to be imposed in the Isle of Man Prison whereas the UK and other jurisdictions generally permit smoking in cells and prison yards while working towards a 100% smoke-free target.

"Although the Isle of Man will be among the last to prohibit smoking in public places when the ban comes in, we could be the first in Britain and possibly in Europe to have a smoke-free jail when the new prison opens at Jurby."