London, Apr 22 (PTI) The UK Parliament passed a bill on Wednesday that will effectively ban future generations from buying cigarettes.
Under the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, all those born after December 31, 2008, will be unable to buy cigarettes. The legislation still needs Royal Assent from King Charles before taking effect as law. It will also allow the government to regulate tobacco, vaping and nicotine products, including flavours and packaging.
Once it is law, the UK will have one of the toughest anti-smoking measures in the world. The law is similar to one New Zealand lawmakers passed in 2022, but that was then repealed by a subsequent government.
“Prevention is better than cure – this reform will save lives, ease pressure on the NHS, and build a healthier Britain,” said Wes Streeting, UK Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, who called it a historic moment for the nation's health.
Health minister Baroness Gillian Merron told the House of Lords: "It is, in fact, the biggest public health intervention in a generation and I can assure all noble Lords it will save lives."
It is part of a series of measures aimed at tackling the health effects of smoking, one of the UK's leading causes of preventable death, disability and ill health.
Vaping will be banned in cars carrying children, in playgrounds, outside schools and at hospitals, expanding smoke-free laws. Vaping would still be allowed outside hospitals in a bid to support those trying to quit.
Outdoor hospitality venues like pub gardens and wider open spaces such as beaches and private outdoor spaces are not included in the plans.
People will also be able to continue smoking and vaping in their homes.