The UK government has formally introduced its plans to implement a smoking ban through a new parliamentary bill it aims to pass into law.
Named the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, Sir Keir Starmer’s Labour government is continuing the initiative started by Rishi Sunak, after the former prime minister first outlined plans to prohibit smoking in 2023.
The bill was initially shelved due to the 2024 general election, with Sunak expressing that he was “disappointed” his key policy wasn’t enacted before his departure from Downing Street.
However, Sir Keir has revived the proposal, which had cross-party backing when Labour was in opposition prior to winning power.
Consequently, the updated Tobacco and Vapes Bill was introduced to Parliament by the Government on 5 November, promising “tougher action to better protect the public, NHS and the economy from the harms of smoking.”
What smoking products will the Tobacco and Vapes Bill ban?
Under the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, the UK Government plans to establish a “world-leading” smoke-free generation by prohibiting anyone born after January 2009 from purchasing tobacco products.
This ban would cover items like cigarettes, tobacco pouches, and cigars, with the aim of breaking the cycle of addiction for those currently under the age of 15 and future generations.
Additionally, the Government will be granted powers to expand the indoor smoking ban to cover certain outdoor areas, focusing on spaces like children’s playgrounds, areas outside schools, and hospitals.
All of these measures are under consideration and will be discussed by lawmakers as the bill progresses through the House of Commons and House of Lords.
What about a vaping ban?
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill is introducing a ban on “vape” advertising and sponsorship.
Additional measures will be implemented to regulate the flavors, display, and packaging of all types of “vapes” and other nicotine products.
Under separate environmental legislation, disposable vapes are also set to be banned starting on 1 June, 2025. These new proposals are also distinct from plans to introduce a “first of its kind vaping tax.”
Is vaping and smoking being banned in pub beer gardens?
In a decision likely to please the hospitality sector, Labour has announced a reversal on its plans to implement a smoking and vaping ban in beer gardens across the country.
“We’re not going ahead or not proposing to go ahead with a ban on outdoor hospitality,” stated Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting.
Mr. Streeting noted that the hospitality industry “has taken a battering in recent years,” explaining that the idea of a ban was merely “leaked government discussion” which sparked “really good debate” on its validity.
He added, “We don’t want to add to their pressure – so we’re not proposing to go ahead with an outdoor hospitality ban at this time.”
Why is the Government introducing the ban?
The Government reports that nearly every minute, someone is hospitalized due to smoking, and up to 75,000 GP visits each month are linked to smoking—over 100 every hour.
Mr. Streeting commented: “Unless we act to help people stay healthy, the rising tide of ill-health in our society threatens to overwhelm and bankrupt our NHS. Prevention is better than cure.
“This government is taking bold action to create the first smoke-free generation, clamp down on kids getting hooked on nicotine through vapes, and protect children and vulnerable people from the harms of second-hand smoke.
“This historic legislation will save thousands of lives and protect the NHS. By building a healthy society, we will also help to build a healthy economy, with fewer people off work sick.”
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill will now move through the formal parliamentary procedures to become law. It could be fast-tracked within a few weeks or follow the standard process, likely taking several months before it receives Royal Assent.