On November 26, British lawmakers will debate and vote on the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which includes some of the strictest anti-smoking measures in the world. Among the key provisions is a plan to ban anyone aged 15 or younger in 2024 from ever purchasing cigarettes, effectively aiming to create a “smoke-free generation.”
The Bill also seeks to make vaping less appealing by banning vape advertising, restricting the sale of vapes in vending machines, and limiting flavors and packaging that target children and young people, such as bubblegum and cotton candy. Labour Health Secretary Wes Streeting emphasized the growing concern over youth vaping, warning that without action, the UK risks raising a generation addicted to nicotine.
While similar measures were previously announced by the Conservative government, they failed to become law before the summer general election. If passed, the new Bill would give the government the power to extend smoking bans to certain outdoor areas, including playgrounds and spaces near schools and hospitals, though plans for a ban in outdoor pubs and cafes were abandoned due to concerns over the hospitality sector.
The Bill would also introduce a licensing scheme for retailers selling tobacco, vaping, and nicotine products, with penalties of £200 (S$340) for selling to minors. Additionally, it explores expanding standardized packaging requirements for all tobacco products.
Cancer Research UK’s Ian Walker highlighted the severity of tobacco’s health impact, stating that tobacco causes around 160 cancer cases daily in the UK, and called for strong political will to reduce these numbers.
Should the Bill pass the vote, it will move to the next stage in the parliamentary process.
