Worcester News readers have been discussing the potential smoking ban plans which could stop young people from ever smoking.

These controversial proposals to outlaw the sale of tobacco products to anyone born post January 1, 2009 were first presented to the House of Commons earlier this month.

The legislation is designed to increase the smoking age annually, effectively preventing those born in 2009 or later from ever legally purchasing tobacco products.

 

 

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However, Rishi Sunak's plans have come under fire from many high-profile politicians, including former Prime Ministers, Liz Truss, and Boris Johnson, who respectively deemed the plans "profoundly unconservative" and "nuts".

Commenting on Facebook, Reader Grant Gibbs said: "I know it’s taking a little bit of freedom away to do as you please but it’s about time they started preventing issues and illness in future generations which will put pressure on the NHS."

Karen Hobson said: "Whilst I’m in favour, there’s only any point if it’s actually going to be policed and enforced.

"Smoking weed is supposedly illegal yet where I live, it doesn’t matter where you go you can smell it.

"Also won’t banning it make it more desirable and create a black market?"

Len Perry said: "I wished I never smoked and don’t anymore, I’m just concerned that gradually choices are being taken away from us."

Natalie Francesca Gowing commented: "(I'd) Rather they did something about vaping which will end up causing much more chemical damage to people in years to come."

Andrew William Adams said: "The biggest killer in this country is the preservatives in food that's what needs banning."

Echoing the senitment, Nicki Hand commented: "Vaping is a much bigger problem in young people than smoking."

Katrina Pegler jested: "I will still keep on smoking lol," before adding "It's not a good idea as people area addicted to nicotine.

"Why don't drugs get banned instead of nicotine?"

Frances Kellett said: "Should have been banned years ago when the consequences were fully understood.

"I can’t stand the current government but this is a good decision for the health of our future generations.

"It’s protecting younger people.

"It’s progress."