Leaders at Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council have joined councils across the South West in calling for the immediate passage of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill.
Council Leaders and Directors of Public Health from every local authority in the region have written to the Minister for Public Health and Prevention, Ashley Dalton MP, urging the Government to ensure the Bill receives Royal Assent before the parliamentary session ends. They are asking ministers to resist amendments that could weaken its measures.
Smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death in the South West, with more than 6,500 deaths each year and over 520,000 adults still smoking. Rates remain highest in more deprived communities.
The proposed law would create a smokefree generation by making it illegal to sell tobacco to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009 and would introduce new powers to tackle youth vaping.
Sam Crowe, Director of Public Health and Prevention at Dorset Council, said reducing smoking and preventing young people from starting is vital for long term health and protecting future generations.
Councillor Gill Taylor, Cabinet member for Health and Housing at BCP Council, said protecting children from the harms of smoking and vaping is a priority and immediate steps are needed to support healthier lives.
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