A member of the House of Lords, Lord Strathcarron, is attempting to amend legislation aimed at implementing a generational ban on tobacco sales. This ban, introduced by Rishi Sunak’s government, would prohibit tobacco sales to anyone born after 2008, making the UK the second country to enact such a ban. Strathcarron’s amendments would instead raise the legal purchase age for tobacco from 18 to 21, thereby allowing future generations to potentially access tobacco products.
Strathcarron has discussed the tobacco and vapes bill with a relative who holds a senior position at British American Tobacco (BAT), though he did not disclose their identity. In a recent statement, he expressed that his family member views the legislation as unnecessary, suggesting market forces could address smoking rates without such a ban. Strathcarron raised questions about whether their conversations constituted lobbying but recognized that peers sometimes engage lobbyists due to limited resources.
The tobacco industry has indicated a willingness to pursue legal action against the generational ban and has been collaborating with certain MPs to seek modifications to the legislation. Reports have emerged suggesting that other peers, including Ed Vaizey, have sought to delay aspects of the bill, such as a proposed ban on heated tobacco.
In his discussions, Strathcarron declared a conflict of interest associated with a minority investor in one of his companies involved in the vape sector. He emphasized that his concerns about the bill stem from its implications for cigars and pipes, which he described as “harmless,” despite research showing potential health risks. Strathcarron advocates for raising the legal smoking age as a more effective measure for reducing youth smoking rates.
Action on World Health, a group with which Strathcarron claims to be in contact, has stated it has not discussed the bill with him and does not have ties to the vaping or pharmaceutical industries. The House of Lords code of conduct underscores the importance of declaring interests to avoid conflicts of interest.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/oct/26/uk-smoking-ban-lord-strathcarron-relative-british-american-tobacco