UK to Ban Smoking Outside Schools, Hospitals, Playgrounds; Landmark Legislation for First Smoke-Free Generation

Nov 5, 2024, 12:18 AM

The UK government is set to introduce significant legislation aimed at reducing smoking rates, with plans to ban smoking in outdoor areas such as schools, hospitals, and playgrounds. This measure is part of a broader initiative to phase out the sale of tobacco products, creating what officials describe as the first 'smoke-free generation.' While the legislation will impose strict restrictions in these public spaces, pubs will be exempt from the smoking ban, allowing patrons to smoke outside these establishments. The draft law, described as landmark legislation, is expected to be published soon.