UK PM Rishi Sunak's anti-smoking bill passes first hurdle
The proposed smoking ban of the British government—headed by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak—has successfully passed its first hurdle in Parliament despite opposition from within its cabinet. On Tuesday, it received backing from 180 Tories, while 165 Conservatives either abstained or voted against it. The bill would ban the sale of tobacco products to anyone born after January 1, 2009—effectively raising the smoking age by a year each year until it applies to the entire population.
Sunak's vision for a smoke-free generation
Sunak had said that his proposal had the potential to phase out smoking in young people almost completely as early as 2040. He stated at the Conservative Party Conference in October, "A 14-year-old today will never legally be sold a cigarette and that they, and their generation, can grow up smoke-free." The initiative is expected to reduce cancer fatalities by 25% and protect children from the harmful effects of smoking.
Proposed law targets vaping products
The proposed legislation aims to restrict the sale and flavors of vaping products, with only four flavors to remain available. It further proposes a ban on disposable vapes. However, the bill does not seek to criminalize smoking, implying that those who can legally buy cigarettes will continue to have that right. The bill has faced significant opposition, including from former prime ministers Liz Truss and Boris Johnson. They argue that the proposal contradicts Conservative values and infringes on public choice.
Health Secretary defends proposed smoking ban
Supporting Sunak, United Kingdom (UK) Health Secretary Victoria Atkins defended the proposed bill, stating that "there is no safe level of tobacco consumption." She added that the legislation could save thousands of lives, alleviate pressure on the National Health Service (NHS) and boost the country's productivity. The bill also aims to address youth vaping by regulating vape sales and packaging to make it less appealing to children.
Smoking in enclosed workplaces already banned in UK
On July 1, 2007 the UK banned smoking in enclosed workplaces, which effectively meant the country's famed pubs would no longer be smoker friendly. The ban has led to a fundamental shift in the attitudes of Britons towards smoking and has led to several benefits, according to an article by the BBC's health correspondent Nick Triggle. Due to the legislation, the number of smokers have declined 17% in the past decade, an encouraging development.
