UK Members of Parliament have voted in favour of a groundbreaking proposal to prohibit the sale of cigarettes to individuals born after 2009, a move expected to soon become law.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak spearheaded the initiative, which encountered resistance from prominent Conservative figures, including two former Prime Ministers. Health Secretary Victoria Atkins staunchly defended the measures, emphasising the absence of freedom in addiction.
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill garnered significant support, passing with 383 votes in favor and 67 against. If enacted, the legislation would establish some of the world’s strictest smoking regulations in the UK.
The inspiration for this approach is believed to have stemmed from a similar law in New Zealand, albeit later repealed following a change in government.
During parliamentary debates, Atkins asserted that the plan aimed to cultivate a “smoke-free generation.” However, dissenting voices, including former Prime Minister Liz Truss, argued against the bill, citing concerns over personal liberties. Boris Johnson, another ex-Prime Minister, derided the proposed ban as “absolutely nuts” during a recent speech in Ottawa.
Conservative MPs were granted a free vote on the matter, leading to a mixed response within the party. While 178 Tory MPs supported the plan, 57 opposed it, including notable figures such as Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch and Conservative Party Deputy Chair Jonathan Gullis. Foreign Office Minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan abstained from voting.
The bill’s journey to becoming law involves several more stages, including votes in the House of Lords, with the possibility of enactment before the anticipated 2024 general election.
The proposed legislation not only targets tobacco but also aims to curb underage vaping, introducing restrictions on flavours and packaging.
Additionally, trading standards officers would receive enhanced authority to levy fines on retailers selling tobacco or vaping products to minors.
Despite such efforts, statistics reveal a troubling trend, with one in five children reportedly experimenting with vaping, despite its illegality for those under 18.