A day after announcing that smoking would be banned from films and television programme, Information and Broadcasting Minister S. Jaipal Reddy Friday attempted to soften the blow by urging a balance between creative expression and social responsibilities.

"Freedom of expression should include creative freedom. But filmmakers should balance expression with larger societal concerns," Reddy told reporters here.

"We have to strike a balance. We have to carry the film industry with us," said Reddy. "To carry this debate forward, the ministry proposes to hold a workshop with all the stake holders in the film and broadcasting industry soon," Reddy said.

"This workshop will also debate other issues like unscientific treatment of medical issues in films, surrogate advertising and liquor advertising," he added.

The information and broadcasting ministry Wednesday endorsed Health Minister Anbumani Ramadoss's call for a ban on smoking on the screen. The ban will be effective from October 2 - to coincide with Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary - after amendments to the Tobacco Control Act, 2003 are carried out.

"To enforce the ban, the ministry has been preparing guidelines which will be put before the cabinet soon," Reddy added.

He also stressed on a level playing field between Hollywood and Bollywood, saying: "Both Hollywood and Bollywood films, while showing smoking scenes, will have to carry a warning sign."