Lifetime cigarette ban advances in UK as vaping rules tighten
UK lawmakers approved a bill raising the legal smoking age annually, creating a lifetime ban for future generations, while tightening vaping regulations.Summary
UK lawmakers have approved the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which will raise the legal age for buying tobacco by one year annually, effectively banning future generations from ever legally purchasing cigarettes. The law, set to receive royal assent next week, also tightens vaping controls by banning sales to under-18s and restricting advertising and discounts. Health Secretary Wes Streeting described this as a historic moment, aiming to create the first smoke-free generation and reduce the burden on the National Health Service. The measures are projected to save lives and ease pressure on the NHS, which currently spends billions annually on smoking-related issues. Additionally, the government is strengthening regulations on vaping, including powers to control flavors and packaging, following previous bans on disposable vapes due to youth use and environmental concerns.
(Source：USA TODAY)
