British lawmakers are set to debate and vote on the government's proposed smoking ban aimed at preventing young people from taking up smoking. The bill, a significant policy initiative announced by the Conservative Prime Minister last year, seeks to make it illegal to sell tobacco products to individuals born after January 1, 2009.
The bill enjoys support from the opposition Labour Party and is expected to pass. However, there is dissent from some members of the ruling party who view the proposals as contrary to conservative principles.
If approved, the Tobacco and Vapes Bill will pave the way for what authorities are calling Britain's 'first smoke-free generation.' The legislation will prohibit the sale of tobacco products to individuals aged 15 or younger this year, with the legal age of sale incrementally increasing each year until it becomes illegal for the entire population.
In addition to curbing tobacco sales, the bill includes measures to address youth vaping by banning the sale of inexpensive disposable vapes and restricting flavor options to deter nicotine addiction among children. It is already illegal across the U.K. to sell cigarettes, tobacco products, and vapes to individuals under 18 years old.
Opponents of the bill, including a smokers' rights advocacy group, argue that the ban could lead to a rise in the black market and criticize the perceived infantilization of future generations of adults. Despite some resistance, the bill is anticipated to pass the initial stage in the House of Commons with relative ease.
The proposed legislation is reminiscent of similar initiatives put forth by New Zealand under former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. However, New Zealand's recent change in government led to the repeal of the bill earlier this year.
