UK government health department announcements or official publications

UK Parliament to Vote on Tobacco and Vapes Bill, Raising Smoking Age

Nov 26, 2024, 07:20 AM

British lawmakers are set to debate and vote on the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which aims to introduce some of the world's strictest anti-smoking measures. The bill would ban anyone born after January 1, 2009, from ever legally smoking by gradually raising the age at which tobacco can be purchased. It also seeks to restrict sweet vape flavors, clamp down on vape advertising, and address youth vaping. The legislation is supported by the Labour Government, with Health Secretary Wes Streeting describing it as a 'world-leading game-changing measure' to create a smoke-free Britain. Public opinion appears divided, with a recent poll indicating opposition to the ban by a two-to-one margin. Campaigners warn that around 350 young adults start smoking daily, leading to tens of thousands of cancer cases each year, and argue that the bill will help avoid a 'life imprisoned by addiction.' Rishi Sunak deserves credit for seeking a national consensus on this issue.