The country that is banning smoking forever

The historic ‘Tobacco and Vapes Bill’ has been passed by Parliament in a bid to make the UK a smoke-free country. As a result of this groundbreaking legislation, the sale of tobacco products to people born after January 1, 2009, has been declared illegal for life. This means that teenagers aged 17 and under will never be able to legally buy cigarettes again after they become adults or for the rest of their lives.
After the final draft of the bill was approved by both the House of Commons and the House of Lords, it now awaits royal assent. If the law comes into force, British ministers will have extensive powers to regulate the flavours and packaging of tobacco and vaping products. The tough decision is part of a series of measures taken by the government to prevent deaths and disabilities caused by smoking.
Under the new law, some more restrictions have been added to protect public health. From now on, vaping will be completely banned in school premises, playgrounds and in front of hospitals. In addition, vaping is not allowed in baby carriages. However, vaping is allowed in designated areas on hospital premises for those who want to quit smoking.
In order to protect the personal freedom of the general public, these restrictions will not apply to smoking or vaping indoors and in open spaces such as pub gardens and beaches. British Health Minister Wes Streeting called the bill a “historic moment” in the country’s public health history. He said prevention is better than cure. The reform will save thousands of lives, reduce pressure on the NHS (National Health Service) and build a healthier Britain.
Baroness Meron, the Minister of State for Health, assured the Lords that this is the biggest health intervention of this generation and that it will save countless lives. However, there is unease among the tobacco industry and retailers about the bill. Former Conservative MP Lord Naseby warned that the decision could have a negative impact on retailers. She stressed the importance of providing proper public education on quitting smoking rather than just banning it. In response, Baroness Meron said the government was working closely with retailers and would continue to do so.
Sarah Slitt, chief executive of Asthma Plus Lung UK, welcomed the bill, saying it was an opportunity to hold the tobacco industry accountable. However, she called on the government to provide current smokers with the support they need to quit the habit. She proposed that a special levy be imposed on tobacco companies to fund a nationwide smoking cessation program.

Source: BBC.