UK to ban cigarette sales

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which is now awaiting royal assent, represents one of the most significant public health interventions in decades.

It grants the government enhanced powers to regulate the flavors and packaging of vaping products to make them less attractive to minors.

While the move has been praised by health experts for its potential to save thousands of lives, some critics have raised concerns about individual freedom and the potential for a black market.

The ban will apply throughout the lifetime of those born after the December 31, 2008 cutoff.