The United Kingdom Parliament voted through a landmark anti-smoking legislation on Tuesday that would implement some of the world’s most stringent tobacco controls, including a ban preventing younger generations from buying cigarettes.
Under the new Tobacco and Vapes Bill, anyone born after Jan 1, 2009 — meaning those who turn 15 this year or who are younger — would be permanently banned from buying cigarettes, effectively creating a smoke-free generation.
The legislation would also ban advertising of vaping products and vending machine sales, while also limiting packaging designs and prohibiting child-friendly flavors, such as bubble gum and cotton candy.
Following the vote, the legislation progresses to the next parliamentary stage, bring the UK closer to achieving its goal of a smoke-free generation.
“The number of children vaping is growing at an alarming rate and without urgent intervention, we’re going to have a generation of children with long-term addiction,” said Health Secretary Wes Streeting.
“The Tobacco and Vapes Bill provides the protection that children and young people need to avoid a life imprisoned by addiction. That’s why it’s so incredibly important it is voted through.”
The bill includes elements of the previous Conservative Party government’s anti-smoking initiative, which failed to pass before the election was held in the summer. It now also includes expanded powers for implementing outdoor-smoking restrictions following public consultation.
While the UK has prohibited indoor smoking in public spaces since 2007, the new legislation would potentially extend those restrictions to specific outdoor areas including school grounds, hospital premises, and playgrounds.
Earlier proposals to ban smoking outside hospitality venues were shelved due to concerns about the possible impact on the industry.
The legislation also proposes a new licensing system for retailers of tobacco, vapes, and nicotine products, with sellers facing a potential 200-pound ($252) fine for selling the products to people who are under the legal age. The legislation could also expand standardized packaging requirements across all tobacco products.
“Tobacco still causes around 160 cancer cases every day in the UK,” said Ian Walker, executive director of policy at Cancer Research UK.
“But with strong political will and bold action, these staggering numbers can be turned around. By voting in favor of this historic legislation, MPs have the power to help save lives and make the UK a world leader in tobacco control. Raising the age of sale of tobacco products and funding cessation support will save people from a deadly and costly addiction.”
