What's happened
UK Parliament votes on a historic smoking bill to create a smoke-free generation by banning future generations from buying cigarettes, aiming to tackle the UK's biggest preventable killer.
Why it matters
The UK Parliament's vote on the smoking bill marks a significant step towards eradicating smoking and preventing thousands of deaths caused by tobacco use. This move is expected to have a profound impact on public health, reducing smoking-related diseases and saving lives, especially among vulnerable populations. By phasing out smoking for future generations, the UK is at the forefront of global efforts to combat the harmful effects of tobacco and create a healthier society for all.
What the papers say
The Mirror highlights the historic nature of the vote, with medics calling it a monumental health intervention. The Guardian emphasizes the positive reception from health leaders and the potential to save thousands of lives. The Independent discusses the opposition the bill faces from some Conservative MPs, despite support from medical bodies and health charities. BBC News reports on the tough anti-tobacco laws proposed by Rishi Sunak to create a smoke-free generation.
How we got here
The smoking bill, first announced in the King's speech, aims to prevent anyone born after 2009 from buying cigarettes, making the UK the first country to ban smoking for future generations. The legislation includes raising the smoking age annually and regulating the sale of tobacco and vapes to deter young people from starting smoking. The bill has garnered support from health professionals, NHS leaders, and medical organizations as a crucial step in reducing smoking-related diseases and deaths.
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