Significant step forward in the journey to creating a smokefree future
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill is back in Parliament today, Tuesday 5 November, being a step closer towards a smokefree future generation.
The Bill includes measures to phase-out the sale of tobacco products across the UK to anyone aged 15 or younger.
It proposes extending the indoor smoking ban to specific outdoor spaces, with children’s playgrounds, outside schools and hospitals all being considered. The Bill also includes a ban on vape advertising and sponsorship, as well as powers to restrict the flavours, display and packaging of all types of vapes, as well as other nicotine products. Disposable vapes are also due to be banned from 1 June 2025 under separate environmental legislation.
Councillor Jonathan Owen, Chair of East Riding’s Health and Wellbeing Board said: “The Bill will prevent children from ever starting smoking, and as smoking is the single largest preventable cause of death in England, we are in full support of what is outlined in the Bill. If passed, it means one of the biggest risk factors driving poor health will be prevented.”
Andy Kingdom, Director of Public Health said: “If the Tobacco and Vapes Bill is passed and becomes legislated, it will deliver the biggest health impact of my career. We know the majority of residents in East Riding support the plans, we know that most smokers regret starting and want to stop, and we know the Bill will deliver huge health benefits – reducing long term preventable illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, COPD and cardiovascular disease.”
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill is subject to six months consultation.
People in the East Riding can get free support to stop smoking from the council commissioned stop smoking programme, run by Xyla. Find out more at: eryc.link/quit-smoking or call Healthier Futures on 0330 236 9102.
