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Latest politics: Badenoch convenes shadow cabinet as Labor aims to create ‘first smoke-free generation’ | Politics News
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Latest politics: Badenoch convenes shadow cabinet as Labor aims to create ‘first smoke-free generation’ | Politics News

The law to create the ‘first smoke-free generation’ will be presented to parliament today

The bill, which aims to create the “first smoke-free generation”, will be presented to the parliament later today.

The Tobacco and Electronic Cigarette Bill, which will gradually raise the tobacco purchasing age and prevent anyone born after January 1, 2009 from legally smoking, will be introduced to the House of Commons on Tuesday.

It is hoped the “historic” legislation “could save thousands of lives and protect the NHS”, according to ministers.

Indoor smoking ban powers could be extended to children’s play areas and some outdoor spaces outside schools and hospitals.

In addition to limiting e-cigarette advertising and sponsorship, the bill would also restrict the flavors, displays and packaging of e-cigarettes in an effort to reduce their appeal to children and teenagers.

Disposable electronic cigarettes will be banned from 1 June 2025 under separate environmental legislation.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting said: “The growing health problems in our society threaten to overwhelm and bankrupt our NHS unless we take action to help people stay healthy. “Prevention is better than cure.

“This government is taking bold steps to create the first generation of smokers, stop children becoming addicted to nicotine through vaping, and protect children and vulnerable people from the harms of second-hand smoke.

“This historic law will save thousands of lives and protect the NHS. By building a healthy society, we will also help build a healthy economy where fewer people get sick.”

A similar bill was brought forward by the previous government, but was shelved due to the call for a general election.

The proposals were revived by the Labor government in July.