UK Government Proposes Extensive Outdoor Smoking Ban in Bid to Curb Public Health Crisis

Minister calls outdoor smoking prohibition a 'practical measure' to aid in quitting smoking

Officials are proposing a prohibition on smoking in areas such as beer gardens, hospital exteriors, nightclub surroundings, outdoor sports facilities, and select small parks.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Friday, August 30, 2024, 12:

A minister has described the government's proposal to prohibit smoking in pub gardens and additional outdoor areas as a "sensible approach" to aid individuals in quitting.

On Thursday, Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged reports that his administration is contemplating a smoking prohibition. This ban would extend to outdoor dining areas, the exteriors of sports facilities, hospitals, nightclubs, and some smaller parks.

The plan has faced criticism from the Conservative Party and others, who argue that it infringes on individual liberties, accusing the government of imposing a nanny state.

Education Minister Baroness Jacqui Smith explained to Sky News that this strategy is "practical" and will assist individuals in "decreasing their smoking habits and in reducing the 80,000 annual deaths caused by smoking-related illnesses."

She expressed that implementing a ban would result in "limited locations available for smoking," which could "significantly increase the chances that active smokers would consider quitting."

Lady Smith emphasized that her stance is based on facts, pointing out that the data shows smoking claims the lives of tens of thousands annually.

For an optimized video experience, it is recommended to utilize the Chrome browser.

The hospitality sector has warned that this move will be a devastating blow, potentially spelling the end for many pubs and restaurants. However, Lady Smith pointed out that during her previous tenure in government back in 2007, when the indoor smoking ban was implemented, the industry managed to adapt successfully.

Further on Labour

The 'dense schedule of laws' awaiting MPs upon their return to parliament

'Angela Raver' gears up for battle on the four-day workweek plan, while Tories stir up dissent

Labour MP asserts his role as an advocate for tenants following the discovery of substandard conditions in his rental properties.

Associated Subjects:

"She expressed significant worry then about the practical execution," she stated.

"Many now agree, especially those in the hospitality field, that our bars and eateries have vastly improved as they are no longer engulfed in smoke."

Sir Keir stated that prohibiting smoking in outdoor spaces would greatly alleviate the strain on the NHS and taxpayers.

"He stated that further information would be disclosed, emphasizing that these deaths could have been avoided. He stressed the need for measures to alleviate the strain on the NHS and lessen the financial impact on taxpayers."

Explore further: Companies required to propose a four-day workweek. What's the feasibility of an outdoor smoking prohibition?

Stay ahead with the latest news updates

Download the Sky News application at no cost

The administration has pledged to uphold the Conservative's initiative to intensify anti-smoking measures, making it unlawful for individuals born post-2009 to purchase cigarettes at any point in their lives.

Several Conservative MPs contended that it would restrict individual liberties, however, the Tobacco and Vapes Bill received bipartisan backing and was approved with a vote of 383 to 67.

A recent YouGov survey indicated that 58% of adults in Britain are in favor of prohibiting smoking in the outdoor areas of pubs and restaurants.

The survey, conducted by YouGov on August 29, found that 35% of respondents were against the proposal, polling 3,715 individuals.

Associated Subjects

Sky News Bottom Section

Information About Sky News

Services Provided by Sky News

Sky Television Networks

Additional Sky Websites