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"We want to encourage more people to quit and meet our ambition to be smoke-free by 2030, which is why we have already taken steps to reduce smoking rates," a spokesperson mailed to Reuters.
Rishi Sunak is contemplating implementing some of the world's toughest anti-smoking measures, with the goal of achieving a smoke-free society by 2030. A spokesperson for the government expressed their commitment to reducing smoking rates and encouraging people to quit.
One of the proposed measures is a potential ban on the sale of cigarettes to individuals born after January 1st, 2009. This approach mirrors similar legislation introduced in New Zealand, which prohibits the sale of tobacco to anyone born on or after the same date.
To further support smoking cessation, several strategies are being considered. These include distributing free vape kits, offering vouchers to incentivize pregnant women to quit smoking, and mandating health warnings on cigarette packs.
This initiative is part of a broader consumer-focused campaign by Sunak's team, likely in preparation for an upcoming election in the near future. The intention is to deter the next generation from ever purchasing cigarettes, thereby curbing the habit's continuation.
In a related development, local councils in England and Wales have urged the government to ban single-use vape products by 2024 due to concerns related to both environmental and health issues.
While these anti-smoking measures are gaining traction, there is also discussion about the possibility of reintroducing a controversial proposal by Sunak to fine individuals £10 for missing medical appointments. This initiative was initially announced during his campaign in the summer of 2022 but had seemingly been set aside upon taking office in the autumn.
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