UK introduces lifetime smoking ban for those born after 2009

British lawmakers have approved a new law that will effectively ban the purchase of cigarettes forever for everyone currently under the age of 18, as well as for future generations. This was reported by Reuters.

The new Tobacco and Vapes Bill provides for an annual increase in the age limit for purchasing tobacco products—starting with people born on or after January 1, 2009. This means that these generations will never be able to legally purchase cigarettes.

The bill is expected to receive Royal Assent next week.

The legislation also introduces stricter controls on electronic cigarettes. The sale of vapes and nicotine products to persons under 18 is prohibited, as are advertising, promotions, free distribution, and discounts.

The government states that the measures aim to curb smoking and prevent nicotine addiction among young people, while simultaneously reducing pressure on the National Health Service (NHS).

“Children in the UK will be part of the first smoke-free generation, protected from a life of addiction and harm,” said Health Secretary Wes Streeting.
“Prevention is better than cure—this reform will save lives, ease the pressure on the NHS, and build a healthier society,” he added.

According to official data, smoking causes approximately 64,000 deaths and 400,000 hospitalizations annually in England. Costs to the healthcare system amount to about £3 billion per year, and total economic losses exceed £20 billion.

At the same time, vapes are also under increased scrutiny from authorities due to concerns over rising use among youth and the risk of nicotine addiction.

Last year, the government already banned the sale of disposable electronic cigarettes for environmental and health reasons.

Under the new law, ministers will be granted powers to regulate the flavors and packaging of tobacco and nicotine products through secondary legislation.

About 10% of adults in the UK—approximately 5.5 million people—use vapes, according to data from Action on Smoking and Health.

About half of them are former smokers, while approximately 40% continue to combine smoking with the use of electronic cigarettes. Data shows that the growth in vape use is beginning to stabilize.