UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced today that he wants to introduce new measures in the fight against smoking, which, according to media reports, could include a ban on smoking in outdoor areas of restaurants and football stadiums.
In July, Starmer stated that he would continue the ambitious anti-smoking policies of his predecessor, Rishi Sunak. Under this plan, it is currently illegal to sell cigarettes to anyone under the age of 15.
According to The Sun, the government is also considering banning smoking in many public spaces. Under this proposal, smoking would no longer be allowed in pub gardens, outdoor dining areas of restaurants, outside nightclubs, football stadiums, on sidewalks near universities and hospitals, and in certain parks and other public spaces.
When asked about these reports, Starmer, who is currently visiting Paris, confirmed to journalists that he would like to take further measures in this direction.
“We will make decisions on this matter, and further details will be revealed,” he said.
“More than 80,000 people die each year due to smoking,” emphasized the British Prime Minister. “These are preventable deaths, placing a huge burden on the NHS (the UK’s National Health Service) and certainly on the taxpayer.”
The plan has been welcomed by health professionals but has faced strong criticism from the nightlife industry, including pubs, a sector that has faced significant challenges in recent years.
“This is very concerning,” said Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, calling on the government to “reconsider” its plans.
“Such restrictions will have a devastating impact on pubs, which are already struggling with soaring energy prices and skyrocketing operational costs,” she added.
