Championing personal freedom
Tory leadership contender Kemi Badenoch asserted her position by voting against Rishi Sunak’s extensive smoking ban in a move that highlighted her support for personal choice.
Backlash against the smoking ban
As the smoking ban proposal advances through Parliament, a growing number of MPs are pushing back against the government's plan to create a smoke-free generation, with Badenoch leading the charge.
Support for personal freedom
Badenoch emphasized the importance of adults having the freedom to make choices about their own bodies, rather than facing restrictions imposed by the state.
Public opinion on the smoking ban
Despite opposition from some MPs, a recent poll indicated that a majority of the public, including a significant portion of 2019 Tory voters, support the phased ban on smoking.
Debate in the Commons
The fiery debate in the Commons saw former PM Liz Truss criticizing the smoking ban as a "virtue-signalling" move, igniting a discussion on personal freedom and government intervention.
Health Secretary's defense
Health Secretary Victoria Atkins defended the smoking ban, citing the need to protect the next generation from the harmful effects of smoking and emphasizing the role of government in safeguarding public health.
Chief Medical Officer's perspective
England’s chief medical officer, Sir Chris Whitty, countered arguments against the smoking ban, highlighting the addictive nature of nicotine and the impact of smoking on individuals' ability to make choices.
Government stance
Number 10 reiterated the government's commitment to reducing the prevalence of smoking, aligning with the Chief Medical Officer's view that action must be taken to address the health risks associated with smoking.
Opposition to the smoking ban
Despite government support, there are voices, including the smokers’ lobby group Forest, urging MPs to reject the smoking ban, citing concerns about potential consequences and implications for personal freedoms.
