UK Parliament passes Tobacco and Vapes Bill banning cigarette sales to anyone born on or after January 1, 2009, aiming to create a smoke-free generation and regulate vaping in public spaces.
Children aged 17 or younger will face a lifetime ban on buying cigarettes after the Tobacco and Vapes Bill cleared Parliament, paving the way for the creation of a “smoke-free generation.” Under the legislation, it will be illegal to sell tobacco to anyone born on or after January 1, 2009.
The bill, now agreed upon by both the Commons and the House of Lords, will come into effect once it receives royal assent. It also grants ministers new powers to regulate tobacco, vaping and nicotine products, including their flavours, packaging and marketing.
The legislation forms part of broader efforts to address the health impact of smoking, one of the UK’s leading causes of preventable death, disability and illness. In addition, vaping will be restricted in certain public spaces, including cars carrying children, playgrounds, and areas outside schools and hospitals, extending existing smoke-free rules.
