UK Parliament passes ‘smoke-free generation’ bill

Legislation to create a “smoke-free generation” has been agreed, banning tobacco sales to anyone born after 2008 and introducing new powers to regulate vaping products, with ministers saying the measures aim to reduce long-term harm and prevent young people from starting smoking.

Plans to phase out smoking among future generations have taken a significant step forward after legislation was approved by the UK Parliament.

Under the proposals, it will become illegal to sell tobacco to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009, meaning the legal age for purchasing tobacco will rise year on year.

The Bill, formally known as the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, is a long-term plan to phase out smoking by making it illegal for younger generations to ever buy tobacco. It means anyone born after January 1 2009 will never be able to purchase tobacco legally in the UK.

The legislation also includes new powers to regulate vaping products, including controls on packaging, marketing and flavours aimed at reducing their appeal to children and young people.

Ministers say the measures are designed to reduce long-term health harms and tackle inequalities, while some retailers have raised concerns about enforcement and impact on businesses.

On Monday 20 April, Health Minister Baroness Merron told the Lords: “This afternoon marks the end of this Bill’s journey throughout Parliament.

“It is a landmark Bill, it will create a smoke-free generation.”

Health Secretary Wes Streeting said, “prevention is better than cure – this reform will save lives, ease pressure on the NHS, and build a healthier Britain.”