UK lawmakers approve lifetime smoking ban for those now aged 17 and under
UK lawmakers have passed a bill prohibiting the sale of tobacco to anyone born after January 1, 2009, effectively creating a smokefree generation.Summary
British lawmakers have approved the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which will prevent anyone currently 17 or younger from ever legally purchasing cigarettes. The law incrementally increases the legal age for buying tobacco by one year annually, starting with those born on or after January 1, 2009, resulting in a lifetime ban for this cohort. Alongside the smoking ban, the legislation introduces stricter regulations on vaping, including prohibiting sales to individuals under 18 and limiting advertising and product displays. The government aims to reduce smoking rates, prevent nicotine addiction among young people, and alleviate pressure on the National Health Service (NHS), which bears significant costs associated with smoking-related illnesses – approximately £3 billion annually and a broader economic impact exceeding £20 billion. Concerns about rising youth vaping rates have also prompted tighter controls, including a previous ban on disposable vapes and new powers to regulate flavors and packaging.
(Source：Pakistan Today)
