In a move that’s sparking debate across the hospitality industry, Labour leader Keir Starmer, during a visit to Paris, hinted at the possibility of extending smoking restrictions to include outdoor areas such as pub gardens and the exteriors of restaurants. This consideration comes as part of a broader initiative to combat tobacco use, which is currently under review by ministers. The proposed measures aim to address the public health crisis caused by smoking, which claims the lives of over 80,000 individuals annually in the UK.
Documents related to the forthcoming tobacco and vapes bill, glimpsed by the Sun, suggest Downing Street supports the introduction of several new measures to curb smoking. One notable proposal is to make the sale of tobacco products illegal to anyone born on or after January 2009, a policy initially suggested by Rishi Sunak’s government and now being pursued by Labour. Additional restrictions could see smoking banned in outdoor spaces at clubs, restaurants, universities, children’s play areas, and small parks, with the intention of also targeting vapers and shisha bars. However, private residences, large parks, and streets would be exempt from these restrictions.
The potential impact of these measures on the hospitality sector has been met with concern. Industry representatives warn of “serious economic harm” and draw parallels with the decline in pub numbers following the indoor smoking ban implemented in 2007. Despite these worries, some business owners, including JD Wetherspoon’s Tim Martin, believe the effects on trade will be minimal, though the question of government intervention in personal liberties remains contentious.
Public health officials and organisations have welcomed the proposals, pointing to the significant health challenge smoking presents. The NHS Confederation has expressed support for the initiative, highlighting smoking as a key driver of health inequalities in Britain.
The Department of Health and Social Care, while not commenting on specific leaks, reaffirmed its commitment to protecting children and non-smokers from the harms of secondhand smoke, indicating that a range of measures is being considered to achieve a smoke-free Britain.
The introduction of the indoor smoking ban by the Labour government in 2007 led to measurable health benefits, including reductions in hospital admissions for heart attacks and childhood asthma. These statistics bolster the case for extending smoking restrictions as a means to further protect public health.
As the government contemplates these new measures, the balance between public health benefits and the economic implications for the hospitality industry remains a central point of discussion.
News Team
