UK Expands Potential Outdoor Smoking Ban

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is considering extending the smoking ban to outdoor areas such as pub gardens, outdoor restaurants, sports stadiums, and hospital vicinities to reduce preventable deaths and ease the burden on the NHS. The proposed measures have sparked significant backlash from the hospitality sector and politicians, with critics labeling the move as 'authoritarian' and damaging to struggling pubs and entertainment venues. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage threatened to boycott pubs entirely if the ban is implemented, while former Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick criticized the focus on smoking bans amid other national challenges. The Labour government aims to build on previous legislation, addressing the harms of second-hand smoke and continuing efforts to make Britain smoke-free. Despite the criticism, health professionals have largely welcomed the potential ban, citing the ongoing health and economic benefits. More details of the proposed legislation are expected to be revealed soon.