The UK Parliament has passed groundbreaking legislation that will permanently ban cigarette sales to anyone born after January 1, 2009, creating what officials are calling a "smoke-free generation."
Both the House of Commons and House of Lords approved the final version of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill on Monday, which will make it illegal for anyone currently aged 17 or younger to ever purchase cigarettes once the law receives royal assent.
Health Minister Baroness Merron declared during the Lords debate: "This afternoon marks the end of this Bill's journey throughout Parliament. It is a landmark Bill, it will create a smoke-free generation. It is, in fact, the biggest public health intervention in a generation and I can assure all noble Lords it will save lives."
The legislation also introduces new restrictions on vaping, including bans in cars carrying children, playgrounds, school grounds, and hospital premises. However, vaping will still be permitted outside hospitals to support those attempting to quit smoking.
"Now that this groundbreaking bill is finally over the line, we have a chance to go further to protect public health and hold the tobacco industry to account," said Sarah Sleet from Asthma + Lung UK.
Notably, the new rules will not extend to outdoor hospitality venues like pub gardens, beaches, or private outdoor spaces. People will still be allowed to smoke and vape in their own homes.
The bill grants ministers expanded authority to regulate tobacco, vaping, and nicotine products, including their flavors and packaging. This forms part of a broader strategy to address smoking, which remains one of the UK's leading causes of preventable death and illness.
While the legislation faced some opposition from industry representatives, health advocates are celebrating the move as transformative. Sleet emphasized the need for continued support for existing smokers, stating: "Right now we have a postcode lottery, which is why the tobacco industry should pay through a levy to reduce the harm they cause by funding these crucial services across the UK."