New tobacco and vape legislation seeks to protect public health while facing criticism for exempting hospitality venues from outdoor smoking restrictions

In a significant public health move, the UK government is set to implement a ban on smoking outside schools and hospitals as part of a comprehensive crackdown on tobacco use, one of the leading causes of cancer and preventable deaths. This measure is included in the delayed tobacco and vapes bill, which will be presented to Parliament today.

The legislation marks a bold step in the government’s efforts to position the UK as the first country globally to eradicate smoking entirely. This ambitious goal includes plans to raise the legal age for purchasing cigarettes incrementally, by one year each year, until no one can legally buy tobacco products.

In addition to the smoking ban outside educational and healthcare facilities, the bill aims to combat the rising trend of vaping among children and adolescents. It will prohibit the advertising of vape products, restrict sponsorship by vaping companies, and limit the flavours, packaging, and marketing strategies that critics argue are designed to attract underage users.

While public health advocates have largely welcomed these measures, the decision to exempt pubs, restaurants, and cafes from the outdoor smoking ban has sparked criticism. Health campaigners have accused the government of bowing to “vested interests,” suggesting that the hospitality sector’s lobbying efforts have unduly influenced the legislation.

The hospitality industry, however, has expressed relief at the government’s decision. Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, stated that banning smoking outside pubs would have led to closures and job losses. She praised the government’s approach as “proportionate,” arguing that the restrictions would have posed an unwarranted burden on the sector.

The debate surrounding the new legislation has been intense, particularly after reports indicated that even Labour leader Keir Starmer had initially supported the outdoor smoking ban. However, the proposal faced opposition within Downing Street, with officials deeming it “unserious” and lacking robust evidence to justify its implementation.

This latest bill signals a pivotal moment in the UK’s public health policy, highlighting the delicate balance between protecting public health and considering the economic implications for the hospitality industry. As the government moves forward with its plans, the impact of these new restrictions on smoking and vaping will be closely monitored.