ASH welcomes progress of historic smoking bill

MPs tonight voted to pass the historic Tobacco and Vapes Bill which will phase out the sale of tobacco to the next generation. 366 MPs from across the house voted in support of the legislation with just 41 voting against.

Commenting on the vote Chief Executive of ASH, Hazel Cheeseman said:
“Today, MPs have taken a major step forward on the journey to end the harm caused by smoking for good. Since the link between smoking and lung cancer was first established, smoking has claimed more than 8 million lives in this country. This historic legislation was first tabled by a Conservative government and will be passed by a Labour one, backed by all four corners of the United Kingdom. It is a rare policy that unites the country in a shared commitment to change. Phasing out the sale of tobacco will protect future generations from the harms of smoking – and sooner or later, smoking will be just a footnote in this country’s history.”

The Government also confirmed during the debate that funding would continue for the Swap to Stop scheme which provides free vaping products to people trying to quit smoking and the scheme that provides financial incentives to support pregnant women to quit. Commenting on this, Hazel Cheeseman added:

“The measures to tackle the irresponsible promotion of vapes in the Bill are needed and welcome, however, it is important that people quitting smoking still have access to vapes as a safer alternative. The continuation of the funding for the swap to stop scheme is therefore important, particularly for reaching those on low incomes where smoking rates are highest.

“Smoking in pregnancy is a leading cause of many poor birth outcomes, and financial incentives are a proven way to connect women to the support that is most effect in helping them to stop. It is great news that this scheme will continue.”