‘Watershed moment’ as smoking ban becomes law

Richard Begg, head of learning and development at VPZ | The Vaping Specialist, said: “Today marks an historic day for public health in the UK.

“The Tobacco and Vapes Bill becoming law signals a decisive shift in how the country approaches smoking, with the ambition of creating a truly smoke-free generation now firmly embedded in legislation.

“The phased increase in the legal age of sale for tobacco is one of the most ambitious measures seen in decades.

“If delivered effectively, it has the potential to dramatically reduce smoking rates over time and prevent future generations from ever starting.

“Given that smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death, the long-term public health prize is significant.

“However, ambition alone will not determine success – execution will.

“Strong, consistent enforcement will be critical, particularly in preventing the growth of illicit trade.

“Without it, there is a real risk that unregulated products and rogue retailers will undermine the intent of the legislation and create new challenges for both consumers and responsible businesses.

“The Bill’s provisions on vaping are equally important, and more nuanced.

“Vaping has played a vital role in helping millions of adult smokers move away from combustible tobacco, and it remains one of the most effective harm reduction tools available.

“Protecting that role must remain central to implementation.

“At the same time, rising youth uptake has rightly driven the need for tighter controls.

“Measures to restrict marketing, improve product standards, and reduce the appeal of vaping to children are necessary and overdue.

“The challenge now is ensuring these steps are carefully calibrated – so that products remain accessible and effective for adult smokers, while becoming far less visible and appealing to young people.

“There is also a clear risk that overly restrictive measures could have unintended consequences.

“If adult smokers are deterred from switching, or if compliant products become harder to access, demand may shift towards illicit or unregulated alternatives – undermining both public health goals and consumer safety.

“For the industry, this moment represents a reset.

“Responsible retailers and manufacturers who prioritise compliance, product quality, and age verification will be best placed to succeed in a more regulated environment.

“Those operating outside the rules will face increasing pressure as enforcement strengthens.

“Ultimately, this legislation sets the direction of travel for years to come.

“It is an historic step forward, but its success will depend on striking the right balance between prevention, harm reduction, and enforcement.

“If that balance is achieved, the UK has a genuine opportunity to lead the world in tobacco control while continuing to support adult smokers in making the switch away from cigarettes.”