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UK Launches Smoking Ban Outside Schools; Pub Gardens Spared in Smoke-Free Generation Plan

Nov 5, 2024, 07:41 AM

The UK government is set to introduce landmark legislation to phase out the sale of tobacco products, aiming to create the nation's first "smoke-free generation." The Tobacco and Vapes Bill will include a ban on smoking outside schools, hospitals, and children's playgrounds in England, as well as new regulations on vaping. Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced the plans, stating, "Smoking remains one of the biggest killers in our country." Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty explained the importance of the measures in protecting public health. However, the government has dropped previous plans to ban smoking outside pubs, bars, and restaurants, allowing smoking in pub gardens to continue. The legislation is part of broader efforts to reduce pressures on the National Health Service (NHS) and address one of the UK's biggest health challenges.