Tory Leadership Standoff
Tory leadership hopeful Kemi Badenoch stood against Rishi Sunak's smoking ban, leading a rebellion of 67 MPs against the proposal as it heads to the next parliamentary stage.
Opposition to the Ban
Amid growing backlash, Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch argued for adults' freedom to choose, questioning the effectiveness and enforcement challenges of the ban.
Public Opinion and Debate
Despite some MPs and ex-PM Liz Truss criticizing the bill as "virtue-signalling," a poll showed 59% public support for the phased ban, with Health Secretary Victoria Atkins defending it as a duty to protect the next generation.
Chief Medical Officer's Perspective
England's chief medical officer, Sir Chris Whitty, dismissed pro-choice arguments, emphasizing that smoking addiction robs individuals of their freedom to choose, with the tobacco industry's influence on legislation labeled as "flimsy."
Future of Smoking Regulations
While Number 10 aligns with the Chief Medical Officer in addressing smoking's health impacts, critics like Forest's Simon Clark warn against fueling the black market and treating future adult generations like children.
