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A ban aimed at preventing children from legally smoking tobacco once they become adults should be introduced to Parliament.

The Tobacco and Vaping Bill, which aims to create the “first tobacco-free generation”, will prevent anyone born after January 1, 2009 from legally smoking by gradually increasing the age of purchasing tobacco,

It is hoped the “landmark” legislation could “save thousands of lives and protect the NHS”, according to ministers, and is expected to be presented to the House of Commons on Tuesday.

Powers to ban indoor smoking could also be extended to some outdoor spaces, considering children’s play areas and outdoor schools and hospitals.

The bill will introduce restrictions on the advertising and sponsorship of vaping, as well as the flavors, presentations and packaging of e-cigarettes to reduce their appeal to children and young people.

Disposable vapes will be banned from June 1, 2025 under separate environmental legislation.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting said: “Unless we act to help people stay healthy, the growing wave of ill health in our society threatens to overwhelm and bankrupt our NHS . Prevention is better than cure.

“This government is taking bold action to create the first smoke-free generation, tackle children becoming addicted to nicotine through vaping, and protect children and vulnerable people from the harm of second-hand smoke.

“This historic legislation will save thousands of lives and protect the NHS. By building a healthy society, we will also help build a healthy economy, with fewer people off work due to illness.

A similar bill was tabled by the previous government, but it was abandoned following the call of the general election.

These proposals were subsequently taken up by the Labor government in July.

In August, reports suggested that ministers were considering banning smoking in some outdoor spaces, such as beer gardens and outdoor stadiums, to improve public health.

However, last month The guardian reported that Downing Street was now blocking the move.

According to the Department of Health and Social Care, the number of cancers caused by smoking has increased by 17 percent since 2003.

Dr Ian Walker, executive director of policy at Cancer Research UK, said: “Today is an important milestone in the journey towards creating a smoke-free UK.

“By raising the age of sale of tobacco products and properly funding cessation services, the government can build a healthier future, prevent cancer and protect people from a life of deadly and costly addiction.”

“We urge all MPs to prioritize the health of the nation by voting in favor of the Bill and ensuring this landmark legislation is implemented across the UK. »

Professor Sir Chris Whitty, England’s Chief Medical Officer, welcomed the introduction of the Bill.

He said: “This is a major bill which, if passed, will have a positive and lasting impact on the health of the nation.

“A smoke-free country would help prevent disease, disability and premature death among children born today and people of tomorrow.

“Smoking causes harm across the lifespan, from stillbirths, childhood asthma, cancers, strokes and heart attacks to premature dementia.”

Hazel Cheeseman, chief executive of Action on Smoking (Ash), called the bill “a world-leading piece of legislation”.

She added: “This opens an important debate about smoking and how long we are willing to tolerate the incredible damage it causes to our society.

“Over the past 50 years, smoking has claimed the lives of more than eight million people in the UK. The health community and the public support the government in this historic effort to phase out tobacco sales.

“Smoking will not steal the health and wealth of future generations.”