Alison Challenger, ADPH Lead for Addiction, has commented on a study showing smoking rates across different regions of England.
“Following the introduction of a range of legislation, including a ban on tobacco advertising and a ban on smoking in public places across all four nations in the 2000s, there has been a marked decrease in the number of people smoking.
“Recent data show that the number of deaths caused by smoking decreased by 9% between 2009 and 2019, however tobacco is still the country’s biggest killer, and the number of smokers reported in this new study shows we cannot be complacent.
“The current Tobacco and Vapes Bill is proposing stronger enforcement and regulation, including measures to create a smoke free generation and if passed, the Bill would represent a sea change in terms of reducing the harm caused by tobacco. Much can also be done by Local Authorities and the study demonstrates the importance of regional level tobacco control partnerships.
“We must protect future generations from ever becoming addicted to this lethal product, laying the foundations for a healthier, more productive and smoke free UK.”