What's happened
The UK government is reconsidering its plans for an outdoor smoking ban, initially proposed to reduce smoking-related deaths. Following backlash from the hospitality sector, the ban will exclude pubs and racecourses. The Tobacco and Vapes bill is expected to be introduced before Christmas 2024, with a focus on public health reforms.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to Jane Dalton in The Independent, the government plans to maintain smoking bans outside hospitals and schools but will exclude pubs and racecourses from the outdoor smoking ban due to backlash from the hospitality sector. Dalton notes that pub landlords warned of potential customer deterrence and economic harm.
The Guardian highlights that Downing Street is blocking the outdoor ban amid concerns from the hospitality trade, with officials stating that the evidence for banning smoking outdoors is insufficient. This reflects a broader tension within the government regarding public health measures and economic impacts.
Metro reports that the government is expected to introduce the Tobacco and Vapes bill before Christmas, which aims to progressively raise the legal age for purchasing tobacco. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has emphasized the need for public health reforms, indicating that the government is still committed to addressing smoking-related health issues despite the pushback on outdoor bans.
How we got here
The proposal for an outdoor smoking ban emerged earlier this year as part of efforts to address the 80,000 annual smoking-related deaths in the UK. Initial plans included restrictions outside pubs and racecourses, but significant opposition from the hospitality industry has led to a reassessment.
Common question
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What are the latest updates on the UK's outdoor smoking ban?
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What Are the Changes to the UK's Outdoor Smoking Ban?
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More on these topics
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Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.
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Wesley Paul William Streeting is a British politician serving as the Member of Parliament for Ilford North since 2015, and since 2020 as Shadow Minister for Schools.