The UK government is planning to introduce a law that will prohibit the sale of tobacco products to anyone born after January 1, 2009, and beyond. This initiative aims to create the first "smoke-free generation."
According to UK government's website, the minimum age for tobacco sales will increase by one year annually until it encompasses the entire population. The goal is to achieve a significant reduction in youth smoking by the year 2040.
"I want to build a better and brighter future for our children, so I want to eradicate smoking for good. These changes will mean that our children will never be able to buy a cigarette," stated UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
According to the UK government, approximately 64,000 people die each year in the UK due to the consequences of smoking. Furthermore, up to 75,000 general practitioner visits each month are attributed to smoking-related illnesses. The country's economy also suffers losses of around £17 billion annually due to smoking-related unemployment, premature deaths, and National Health Service expenses.
It's important to note that smoking itself will not be criminalized. The phased approach ensures that anyone legally purchasing cigarettes now will not be deprived of that option in the future.
The government also announced its intention to take measures to combat vaping among young people. Authorities are considering plans to reduce the appeal and availability of vaping products for children.
"I welcome all measures to reduce uptake of smoking and make it obsolete once and for all. Investment in Public Health messaging and cessation services will all contribute to this. I see too many lives ruined by smoking." - stated Dr Sarah Clarke, President of the Royal College of Physicians and Consultant Cardiologist at Royal Papworth Hospital Cambridge.
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