MPs are gearing up for a crucial debate on the Government’s groundbreaking Tobacco and Vapes Bill, aimed at preventing young people from taking up smoking. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is leading the charge on this initiative, determined to eliminate smoking among the youth for good. However, there’s dissent within the Prime Minister’s party, poised to challenge the Bill.
The proposed legislation includes a ban on selling tobacco products to individuals born after January 1, 2009, essentially those who are currently 15 and below. Importantly, the Bill won’t prohibit existing legal consumers from purchasing tobacco. It also introduces measures to tackle adolescent vaping, such as restrictions on flavours and regulations on their sale to minors.
The motivation behind the Bill is to create a better future for young people, citing the significant health and economic burdens caused by smoking. Smoking-related deaths and strain on healthcare services highlight the urgency of this intervention, with the goal of creating a smoke-free generation. Health professionals widely support this initiative.
Practically, the Bill proposes a gradual increase in the legal age for tobacco purchase, reaching 19 by 2027. Enforcement measures include fines for vendors selling tobacco to minors, aiming to deter non-compliance.
Opposition to the Bill comes from within the Conservative Party, with critics labeling it as “profoundly unconservative” and questioning its priority. However, Chief Medical Officer for England, Sir Chris Whitty, rebuts this, emphasising the health risks associated with smoking.
In the House of Commons, Labour supports the Government’s initiative while seizing the opportunity to criticise Tory leadership. Despite internal dissent, Labour is committed to advancing public health through the Bill’s passage.
