Richards the butt of Scots smoking ban

[RonJonSurfer]

Smoking Fines Possible From Stones Concert

Keith Richards may be in violation of Scotland's new smoking ban.

United Press International

Keith Richards and Hampden Park may be fined for the guitarist's decision to smoke on stage during a Rolling Stones concert in the Glasgow, Scotland, venue.

The Scotsman reported that the musician could be fined for smoking during the legendary band's performance Friday at Hampden Park if he is ruled in violation of Scotland's new smoking ban, and the park itself could be fined if found responsible.

The newspaper said that if judged to have violated the country's new smoking regulation, millionaire Richards could face a fine of $94.

While it was not confirmed that any official complaints have been made about the incident, a spokesman for the Glasgow City Council said the matter would be investigated.

"This has been brought to our attention and we will look into it," said the spokesman. "Glasgow City Council takes its responsibility for enforcing the smoking ban very seriously."

Copyright Yellowbrix 2006

[RonJonSurfer]

Keith Richards Dodges Smoking Fine

The Rolling Stones guitarist may be in violation of Scotland's new smoking ban.

Rolling Stones legend Keith Richards has escaped a fine for appearing to defy Scotland's new smoking ban during a recent concert thanks to a loophole in the law.

The rocker was reported to have fallen foul of the law after lighting up during a performance of the group's A Bigger Bang tour at Scottish venue, Hampton Park.

However an executive spokesman Monday night admitted a mistake had been made. He said: "Football grounds are not governed by the law because they are not regarded as enclosed spaces."

Copyright World Entertainment News Network 2006

[TheLizard]

The real loophole is: "The law enforcement of Scotland does not want to look like complete jerks."