OSLO, Norway -- Smoking is more than just a habit in one county in Norway.
In a dispute over a ban imposed on one town's workers, the county has declared smoking to be a basic human right. The town had banned all smoking by city workers during working hours -- on or off city property.
Opponents of the ban asked the county governor's office to assess whether the ban was legal. The county declared the ban invalid, saying it violates the European Human Rights Convention.
It says the town can ban smoking on its property, but not if, for example, a worker is on private property or driving his own car.
Two of the ban's opponents celebrated the ruling on the steps of the town hall by lighting up the biggest cigars they could find.
