Government scraps plans to ban smoking outside restaurants and bars

Plans to ban smoking outside hospitality venues have been officially scrapped by the government.

UKHospitality has welcomed news that the proposed extension to the indoor smoking ban will no longer include areas outside of pubs, bars and restaurants.

Early details of the legislation were leaked over the summer and received major backlash from the sector.

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill will be set out in Parliament today and will instead look to ban smoking outside children’s playgrounds, schools and hospitals.

This will also see a crackdown on vape advertising and sponsorship, as well as powers to restrict the flavours, display and packaging on all types of vapes.

Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality, said: “The rumoured ban on smoking in outdoor areas understandably caused angst amongst hospitality businesses, who were concerned that 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.”

Disposable vapes are also due to be banned from 1 June 2025 under separate environmental legislation.

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill will also include powers to introduce a licensing scheme for retailers to sell tobacco, vape and nicotine products in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. 

On the spot fines of £200 will be given to retailers found to be selling products to people underage.

The plans are part of a government push to focus on sickness prevention, with smoking-related illness costing the NHS £3.1b a year.

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