UK legislators approve lifetime smoking prohibition for today's under-18s
Children in Britain who are 17 or younger, and anyone born in the future, will never be able to legally buy cigarettes after legislators approved new
An illustrative image related to: UK legislators approve lifetime smoking prohibition for today's under-18s, highlighting key aspects of the story. | Image source: Geo News
UK legislators approve lifetime smoking prohibition for today's under-18s
Children in Britain who are 17 or younger, and anyone born in the future, will never be able to legally buy cigarettes after legislators approved new stricter restrictions on smoking.
The Tobacco and Vapes Proposal raises the legal age for buying tobacco by one year, every year, starting with individuals born on or after January 1, 2009, meaning affected age groups face a lifetime prohibition.
The statute, which is due to receive royal assent next week, also tightens controls on vaping, including banning sales of vaping and nicotine products to under‑18s and restricting advertising, displays, free distribution and discounting.
The province states the measures will help reduce smoking and prevent young individuals from becoming addicted to nicotine, easing long-term pressure on the National Wellbeing Service.
Wellbeing Secretary Wes Streeting stated the endorsement of the proposal was a historic moment for the country's wellbeing.
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