Nobody born after 2009 will ever be able to legally buy cigarettes in the UK, with the Tobacco and Vapes Bill now being enshrined in law after gaining Royal Assent.
Also known as the generational smoking ban, the law, which comes into force on January 1, 2027, means only those born before January 1, 2009 can buy cigarettes, placing new proof-of-age requirements on retailers. The law will also make it an offence to vape in cars with anyone under the age of 18 from next year.
From 2027, retailers will have to ensure anyone buying cigarettes or tobacco products, including papers, was born in 2008 or earlier, meaning those just turning 19 will be banned from these products from next year. The rolling nature of the year means shopkeepers will have to refuse to sell cigarettes to 25-year-olds in 2033, 30-year-olds in 2038, and so on.
The Association of Convenience Stores has published a guide to the new law for retailers, as well posters to publicise its implications to customers.
Having been passed by the Houses of Commons and Lords earlier in the month, the royal seal of approval was all that was required before the law became official. With Assent now granted, that final hurdle has been passed.
Hazel Cheeseman, chief executive of ASH (Action on Smoking and Health), called the Bill’s passing “a truly watershed moment in public health”, and “a gift to future generations”.
Former PM Rishi Sunak, who initiated the Bill when in power, commented: “This is not a party-political issue, as shown by the support from parliamentarians of all political persuasions”, adding that the new law “will make us a healthier country where people live longer and better lives”.
