British Parliament to Decide on Implementing Smoking Ban for Youth

In a bold move to combat smoking-related illnesses and deaths, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is pushing for a ban on anyone aged 15 and under from ever buying cigarettes. The proposed legislation, known as the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, aims to prevent children born since 2009 from legally purchasing tobacco products.

While Sunak’s anti-smoking initiative has garnered support from medical experts and charities who highlight the health risks associated with smoking, it has also sparked controversy within his own Conservative Party. Former prime ministers Liz Truss and Boris Johnson have criticized the proposed ban, arguing that the government should not dictate how individuals live their lives.

Despite the internal dissent, lawmakers are set to vote on the bill on Tuesday, with expectations of its approval. The legislation is seen as one of Sunak’s key policies ahead of the upcoming election, where the opposition Labour Party is predicted to win.

Critics of the ban, such as Conservative lawmaker Simon Clarke, have raised concerns about the potential consequences of such a strict measure. Clarke warned that a ban could inadvertently make smoking more appealing to young people, create a black market for tobacco products, and pose challenges for enforcement.

Regardless of the criticisms, the Tobacco and Vapes Bill is likely to pass, with Labour indicating its support for the measure. If approved, the bill will advance to the next stage in parliament, marking a significant step towards reducing smoking-related harm in the UK.