- Rishi Sunak is reportedly considering gradually increasing the legal smoking age to discourage smoking among younger generations, potentially implementing one of the world’s strictest anti-smoking measures.
- This proposal, inspired by New Zealand’s approach, could eventually prohibit tobacco sales to individuals born after January 1, 2009, and is part of a wider consultation on vaping, while discussions about reducing smoking rates have taken place in Whitehall.
Rishi Sunak is contemplating a gradual increase in the legal smoking age with the aim of phasing out smoking among younger generations. According to reports, the Prime Minister is exploring the implementation of some of the world’s most stringent anti-smoking measures. The model being considered is based on New Zealand’s approach, which involves a yearly increment in the legal smoking age. As a result, tobacco would eventually become inaccessible to individuals born on or after January 1, 2009. This proposal is among the options being explored in a comprehensive consultation on vaping that is currently in progress.
Government sources have acknowledged that Mr. Sunak regularly seeks advice on various matters, and while they have not confirmed its endorsement, they have not denied that this particular proposal is under consideration. Recent discussions within Whitehall have centred on strategies to reduce smoking rates. Some advisers have suggested a potential ban on smoking in outdoor areas near pubs and restaurants, but this idea was dismissed due to concerns about its adverse impact on the pub industry.
