Gov axes plans to introduce smoking ban in pub gardens
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill, introduced in Parliament today (Tuesday 5 November), laid out measures to extend the indoor smoking ban to certain outdoor settings in a bid to “protect children and the most vulnerable”.
While the ban had been predicted to include pub gardens and other hospitality settings the Government has now confirmed they will be exempt.
“In England, hospitality settings, including outside areas of pubs and bars, will not be included in the proposed extension to the indoor smoking ban", the Bill said.
Impact trade
Following the news, UKHospitality (UKH) chief executive Kate Nicholls welcomed update.
She said: “The rumoured ban on smoking in outdoor areas understandably caused angst among hospitality businesses, who were concerned it would impact trade and undermine their investments in creating outdoor spaces for customers.
“While we’re yet to see the detail, this initial confirmation that hospitality won’t be included is positive. Now is not the time for further cost to be added to businesses and we're pleased the Government has listened to and acted on the sector's concerns.”
In addition, in a post on X Nicholls said she “welcomed the constructive listening” from Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Wes Streeting.
We very much welcome the dialogue we have been able to have with @wesstreeting and about the impact of smoking restrictions on hospitality, tourism and leisure and welcome his constructive listening & engagement as we work to provide smoke free areas and choice for customers https://t.co/9MRPyW73e8
— Kate Nicholls OBE (@UKHospKate) November 5, 2024
Children’s playgrounds, hospitals and schools are currently being considered for inclusion, subject to consultation
Heavily criticised
In addition, the new measures include plans to “phase out” the sale of tobacco and vape products in the UK so that anyone under the age of 15 will never be able to purchase them.
The Bill will also ban vape advertising and sponsorship alongside tougher action on enforcement and tighter regulation on vaping.
Earlier this year (August), leaked documents seen by The Sun revealed the indoor smoking ban could be extended to pub gardens, outside of nightclubs, restaurant terraces, outdoor sports stadiums, children’s parks, pavements by universities as well as shisha bars.
The plans to include hospitality settings in the extension were heavily criticised by the sector, with more than 8 in 10 operators opposed to an outdoor smoking ban in pub gardens according to a flash poll conducted by The Morning Advertiser in September.
