British premier's landmark smoking ban clears its initial parliamentary hurdle

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - Despite facing opposition from within his own Cabinet, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's landmark smoking ban has cleared its initial parliamentary hurdle thanks to support from the Labour party.

The parliament has taken a step toward creating a smoke-free generation by voting to implement stringent measures aimed at reducing smoking-related deaths.

The new legislation focuses primarily on the sale of cigarettes, rather than the act of smoking itself.

The legal age for purchasing cigarettes will increase each year.

Currently set at 18, this age limit will rise by one year annually, effectively rendering those born in or after 2009 unable to legally purchase cigarettes when they reach adulthood. Notably, existing smokers will not be affected by the new law, ensuring that individuals of legal age at the time of enactment can continue to access tobacco products.

To combat the persistent issue of underage smoking, the government has proposed stringent penalties for retailers found violating the age restrictions.

In addition to the existing £2,500 ($3,108) fines imposed by courts, shops in England and Wales could face £100 on-the-spot fines for selling tobacco and vape products to minors.

The government has committed £30 million for enforcement initiatives, which will include targeted strategies to combat the black market for cigarettes.