Sunak ‘disappointed’ UK smoking ban won’t become law

Britain’s Prime Minister and Conservative Party leader Rishi Sunak enjoys a hot drink and a Tunnock’s during a visit to the Global Energy Group facility at the Port of Nigg in north-east Scotland on May 23, 2024, during a campaign event in the build-up to the UK general election on July 4. (Photo by HENRY NICHOLLS / POOL / AFP)

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s decision to call an early general election means his flagship smoking ban will not pass before the current parliamentary session is suspended on Friday.

The Conservative party leader had pledged to create a “smoke-free generation” by introducing a law preventing young people from ever being able to buy cigarettes legally.

But the proposal, which had been seen as Sunak’s legacy if he loses the election, was not included in the “wash-up” period where legislation is rushed through before parliament shuts down.

“Of course (I’m) disappointed not to be able to get that through at the end of the session, given the time available,” Sunak told reporters during a campaign visit to Northern Ireland.

The bill was set to make it illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone born after January 1, 2009 — effectively raising the smoking age by a year each year until it applies to the whole population.

“I stepped up to do something that is bold, that will make an enormous difference in the future of our country,” added Sunak, who would be expected to reintroduce the legislation if he wins the nationwide vote.

Sunak, prime minister since October 2022, confirmed in a rain-soaked speech outside Downing Street on Wednesday that the UK would go to the polls on July 4 — six months earlier than it has to.

The announcement means a number of his government’s headline proposals are unlikely to see the