LGA backs Smokefree 2030 consultation

The UK Goverment recently shared plans to create a ‘smokefree generation’ by 2030.

The Local Government Association responded positively to the news, emphasising the significant role local councils play in helping those in the community to help quit smoking. 

Key measures include gradually raising the minimum age for tobacco sales each year, advocating vaping as a means for smoking cessation, and enhancing efforts to prevent health issues by providing smokers with guidance and support to quit. 

The main goal is to reach a 5% smoking population by 2030 and in turn, “extend healthy life expectancy by five years by 2035”.

In reaction to the conclusion of the Government’s consultation on the Smokefree 2030 initiative, Cllr David Fothergill, Chair of the Local Government Association’s Community Wellbeing Board, said: 

“Councils work hard in their communities to help long term smokers quit and so are fully supportive of the Government’s smokefree 2030 ambitions.

“Smoking remains one of the leading causes of preventable ill health, disability, and death in England. This creates additional pressures on our health and care systems and affects the quality of life for some in our local communities.

“We hope this consultation can help bring about a new smokefree generation, improving the life chances of people across the country.”