New tobacco Bill aims to create first smoke-free generation in the UK

A groundbreaking Tobacco and Vapes Bill, introduced in Parliament today, aims to make the UK’s first smoke-free generation by banning tobacco sales to young people born on or after 1 January 2009.

Covering all four UK nations, the bill marks a significant step towards eliminating smoking-related illnesses and preventing nicotine addiction in future generations.

In Wales, where smoking remains a leading cause of preventable illness and results in around 3,845 deaths annually, the legislation is viewed as a critical step in the Welsh Government’s goal to make Wales smoke-free by 2030.

Recent restrictions on smoking in outdoor public areas, such as hospital grounds, school grounds, and playgrounds, already reflect this commitment.

Now, the proposed UK-wide legislation further strengthens these efforts by addressing tobacco sales, vaping, and nicotine product regulation.

Welsh Government Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing Sarah Murphy voiced strong support for the bill.

“I am pleased to see this strengthened Bill introduced as it underlines our commitment to tackle smoking; to break the cycle of nicotine addiction and pave the way towards a smoke and nicotine-free UK,” she said. “This is a huge step forward in ensuring the health of future generations.”

The proposed bill also includes robust measures to tackle the rising trend of youth vaping in Wales, where almost 16% of year 11 students report weekly vape use.

Key provisions in the bill aim to limit vaping among young people by banning vape vending machines, introducing new advertising restrictions, and addressing the availability of flavoured vapes, which are often marketed in ways that appeal to younger consumers.

Stores will also be required to keep vape products out of sight to reduce visibility and access to children.

Dr Keir Lewis, a respiratory clinical lead at Prince Philip Hospital, supported the legislation’s public health goals.

“This Bill provides a chance for people in Wales to achieve better health. As a lung doctor, I see the pain, misery, and death caused by smoking every day,” he said.

“The government is helping protect us now and for generations to come with such a comprehensive set of measures to control tobacco and vaping.”

The legislation would empower Trading Standards Wales and other enforcement bodies with increased authority, including issuing Fixed Penalty Notices for illegal sales of tobacco and vape products.

Jacqui Thomas, Chair of Trading Standards Wales, highlighted the importance of these measures.

“The proposed changes will be key in the protection of public health, particularly for children and future generations,” Thomas said.

With the new restrictions, the Welsh Government hopes to create a smoke-free generation and to limit the health risks associated with both tobacco and nicotine addiction.

Sarah Murphy MS noted the significance of the age restrictions on tobacco and the curbs on youth-targeted vape marketing, emphasising the importance of collective efforts: “Together we can ensure future generations ‘stub it out’ for good.”