An Irish pub in Perth that faces hefty fines for displaying 25-year-old cigarette advertising signs on its walls has won the support of the West Australian premier.
Health department officials recently warned JB O'Reilly's in West Leederville that the signs were considered a breach of the Tobacco Products Control Act, despite depicting brands that haven't been sold for many decades.
There was momentary confusion on Friday when Health Minister Kim Hames said he'd consult with the department before making a decision about whether to pursue the matter, but had ordered officials to stop any further action in the meantime.
Around the same time, Colin Barnett was telling reporters he'd already made up his mind.
"I'm overruling it," he said.
"It is ridiculous - they are collector's pieces. They show an era gone by. It's not promoting smoking.
"If that's the way they choose to decorate their pub, good on them. I support them."
Mr Barnett said there had been a lack of common sense in applying the law in this instance.
The Australian Hotels Association welcomed the conclusion to "a highly unusual situation".
"The 25 vintage signs inside the pub are decorative, and should not be deemed as advertising," chief executive Bradley Woods said.
"JB O'Reilly's does not sell any tobacco products in its pub.
"The turn of events is a win for common sense."
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