ADPH welcome new Tobacco & Vapes Bill

Today, the Government are introducing the new Tobacco and Vapes Bill in Parliament.

The Bill will include measures to create a smokefree generation, phasing-out the sale of tobacco products across the UK to anyone aged 15 or younger this year. In addition, the Government will be given powers to extend the indoor smoking ban to specific outdoor spaces: with children’s playgrounds, outside schools and hospitals all being considered, subject to consultation.

This sits alongside a ban in the Bill on vape advertising and sponsorship, as well as powers to restrict the flavours, display and packaging of all types of vapes, as well as other nicotine products.

Greg Fell, ADPH President, said:

“Smoking doesn’t just kill smokers, it also kills a significant number of non-smokers worldwide every year, including infants and children. In the UK, these numbers are far fewer than they were before the restrictions on advertising and sales, and on smoking in public places, were introduced. That legislation has saved thousands of lives and given much more freedom to the 88% of people who don’t smoke, including thousands of medically vulnerable people.

“Today’s proposals are an opportunity to extend this freedom and protect future generations from ever becoming addicted to this lethal product, laying the foundations for a healthier, more productive and smokefree UK.

“Moving forward, it is vital that the Government works with local authorities and communities, to make sure that this legislation is as effective as possible while at the same time, continuing to support those who want to quit.”