The Tobacco and Vapes Bill will phase out the sale of tobacco products across the UK to anyone aged 15 or younger this year, extend the smoking ban to some outdoor settings, ban vape advertising and sponsorship and create new powers to restrict the flavours, display and packaging of all types of vapes.

Health and social care secretary, Wes Streeting, said: 'Unless we act to help people stay healthy, the rising tide of ill-health in our society threatens to overwhelm and bankrupt our NHS. Prevention is better than cure. 

‘This Government is taking bold action to create the first smokefree generation, clamp down on kids getting hooked on nicotine through vapes, and protect children and vulnerable people from the harms of second-hand smoke. 

‘This historic legislation will save thousands of lives and protect the NHS. By building a healthy society, we will also help to build a healthy economy, with fewer people off work sick.'

The Government will be given powers to extend the indoor smoking ban to specific outdoor spaces, including children's playgrounds, outside schools and hospitals, subject to consultation.

Disposable vapes are also due to be banned from 1 June 2025 under separate environmental legislation.   

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill is part of the Government's reform agenda to shift the focus of healthcare from sickness to prevention. 

Smoking claims around 80,000 lives a year in the UK, putting huge pressure on our NHS, taking up appointments, scans and operations, and costing taxpayers £3.1bn a year.   

Smoking costs the economy £18bn lost in productivity every year, as smokers are a third more likely to be off work sick.

Matthew Taylor, chief executive of the NHS Confederation, said: 'Our members will welcome this Bill as further indication that the government is not shying away from difficult and potentially unpopular decisions to bring in a healthier future for the next generation.'