Smoking to be banned for future generations in Wales as landmark bill voted through

People turning 18 from 2027 will never be able to legally buy cigarettes in Wales.

That's after the Senedd voted to pass a landmark Bill affecting anyone born on or after January 1, 2009.

From 2027, it will become illegal to sell tobacco to anyone who is 18 years old.

Smoking is the leading cause of preventable ill health and premature death in Wales, with around 5,000 deaths a year as a result. The legislation has already been passed in Scotland and Northern Ireland, meaning it can be implemented there once it receives Royal Assent from the King.

The Bill was introduced by the UK Government, but needed Senedd approval as health is a devolved matter. It is hoped that this new law will help Wales reach its 2030 smoke-free target. This is defined as 5% or less of the adult population smoking.

Mental Health and Wellbeing Minister Sarah Murphy said: "This is a historic day for public health in Wales. Despite the real progress we have made to reduce smoking levels, tobacco continues to be one of the leading causes of preventable disease and premature death in Wales.

“The Tobacco and Vapes Bill provides us with a unique opportunity to tackle smoking and the growing issue of youth vaping.

“It is an opportunity to comprehensively and significantly improve public health in Wales and the wider UK."

Chief Medical Officer for Wales, Professor Isabel Oliver, said: "Tobacco addiction kills thousands in Wales every year and continues to reinforce existing health inequalities.

“This Bill offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to break that cycle and protect future generations from a product that has caused immeasurable harm."