Sir Keir Starmer emphasized the urgent need to address smoking-related health burdens, stating, "Over 80,000 people lose their lives every year because of smoking. That is a preventable death, it's a huge burden on the NHS."
The proposed ban on outdoor smoking in hospitality venues aims to reduce smoking's impact on public health, with Starmer confirming that decisions are being made on this crucial issue.
While health organizations support the outdoor smoking ban, industry representatives argue that such a prohibition would negatively affect their businesses, showcasing the tension between public health initiatives and economic interests.
The outdoor smoking ban could form part of a wider Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which seeks to phase out cigarette sales for future generations, highlighting a significant shift in public health policy.
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