[Comment] Beyond a smoke-free generation: ending smoking within a generation

Abstract

The UK has long been a leader in tobacco control, including tobacco harm reduction. The passage of the Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026 in England and Wales is notable for keeping the primary focus on smoking and distinguishing combustible tobacco from lower-risk nicotine products.1 Part of a broader legislative package, the “smoke-free generation” provision, which would make it illegal to sell tobacco and tobacco products to people born after Jan 1, 2009, has attracted the most public attention.2 Some commentators have raised concerns that future regulations could discourage the use of smoke-free nicotine alternatives to quit smoking.