UK generational smoking ban passes

In a historic victory for public health advocates, the House of Commons and House of Lords have settled on the final draft of a generational smoking ban.

The new law makes it illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone born on or after January 1, 2009, effectively ensuring that today's 17-year-olds will never reach the legal age to smoke.

The legislation also includes strict new regulations on vaping flavors and packaging to prevent youth nicotine addiction.

Health Minister Wes Streeting hailed the move as a critical step toward reducing the long-term burden on the NHS.