British PM Supports Smoking Ban in Outdoor Spaces to Ease NHS Pressure

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed support for banning smoking in certain outdoor spaces, like pub gardens, to reduce strain on the NHS and cut costs to taxpayers. This move aligns with Labour's manifesto and aims to lower preventable smoking-related deaths and associated economic burdens.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his support on Thursday for banning smoking in certain outdoor spaces, including pub gardens, as a measure to reduce pressure on the state-run National Health Service (NHS) and minimize costs to taxpayers. The details of the proposal are yet to be finalized, but Starmer emphasized that 80,000 people die annually from smoking-related causes, underscoring the importance of addressing preventable diseases.

When asked about his stance on smoking bans in public areas such as pub gardens, Starmer told Channel 4 News, "I want us to move to a smoke-free environment, reduce those preventable deaths, and lessen the burden on the NHS and taxpayers. So, yes, I am supportive." Government documents indicate that potential bans could include pub and restaurant gardens, outdoor sports stadiums, children's parks, and pavements near hospitals and universities.

The Labour Party, victorious in last month's general election, had pledged in its manifesto to implement some of the world's toughest anti-smoking regulations by prohibiting younger people from smoking. The previous Conservative government's similar initiatives failed to pass before the election. Britain's 2007 ban on smoking in enclosed public spaces significantly reduced the number of smokers and related hospital admissions, though the hospitality industry warns that a stricter ban might lead to business closures.

(With inputs from agencies.)