Britain is set to introduce sweeping anti-smoking measures after lawmakers approved legislation that would permanently bar young people from purchasing cigarettes.
The proposed law, known as the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, seeks to prohibit anyone born after January 1, 2009, from ever buying tobacco products. This means individuals who are currently 17 years old or younger would be unable to legally purchase cigarettes at any point in their lives.
Speaking on the development, UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting described the move as a landmark step toward improving public health.
“This is a historic moment for the nation’s health. We are taking decisive action to create the first smoke-free generation and protect young people from a lifetime of addiction and harm,” he said.
The legislation, which has now passed both chambers of Parliament, will take effect once it receives royal assent.
Beyond restricting cigarette sales, the bill also grants authorities broader powers to regulate smoking and vaping in public spaces.
Under the proposed framework, the government could extend existing indoor smoking restrictions to certain outdoor locations, including playgrounds, areas around schools, and hospital premises.
In addition, the bill introduces stricter controls on vaping products, particularly those targeted at younger users. This includes potential limits on flavours, packaging designs, and usage in smoke-free zones.
Public health advocates have welcomed the development, describing it as a turning point in efforts to reduce smoking-related illnesses.
Hazel Cheeseman, chief executive of Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), said the measure signals a major shift in tobacco control policy.
“This legislation represents a decisive turning point for public health. It has the potential to significantly reduce smoking rates and the long-term burden of disease,” she noted.
The UK government says the initiative is part of a broader strategy to prioritise preventive healthcare and reduce pressure on the National Health Service.
Smoking remains one of the leading causes of preventable deaths in England, contributing to tens of thousands of fatalities each year and a significant proportion of cancer cases.
The move follows similar attempts in other countries. New Zealand previously introduced a generational smoking ban, although it was later repealed, while the Maldives has also adopted restrictions targeting younger populations.
If fully implemented, UK officials believe the policy could dramatically cut smoking rates over time and reshape public health outcomes for future generations.
