Smoking Ban Scrapped for British Clubs, Pubs, and Cafes as Sector Pushes Back

The British government’s plans to ban smoking outside pubs, clubs, and cafes fall flat amid concerns about the impact on the hospitality industry.

The British government’s plans to band smoking outside schools, hospitals, and playgrounds to reduce pressure on the state-run National Health Service (NHS) and cost to taxpayers is culminating in the Tobacco and Vapes Bill introduced to parliament today. That bill involves some of the strictest anti-smoking rules in the world, including banning young people from smoking.

But the government has abandoned its plans to ban smoking outside pubs, clubs, and cafes after concerns were raised about the impact of such a ban on the hospitality industry.

“Unless we act to help people stay healthy, the rising tide of ill-health in our society threatens to overwhelm and bankrupt our NHS,” said Health Minister Wes Streeting in a statement. “This historic legislation will save thousands of lives.”

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said back in August that he supported the idea of banning smoking in outdoor spaces such as outside pubs. But the British Beer and Pub Association called the plan “deeply concerning,” and would have a “devastating impact” on venues which already struggle with rising costs.

“We welcome the Government’s decision to scrap the proposed smoking ban for pubs and clubs,” said Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, in a statement to Digital Music News. “This shift recognizes the important role our venues play as controlled, socially responsible spaces within communities. The initial proposals risked significant harm to our industry, which is still in the process of of recovery from the pandemic and other economic pressures.”

“The revised focus of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill on restricting smoking in high-risk areas, such as those outside hospitals and schools, strikes a much-needed balance,” Kill continues. “This approach addresses public health concerns while also protecting the night time economy, which contributes so much to our society both culturally and financially. We are grateful that the Government took into account the strong representations from our sector and listened to the voices of operators across the UK.”

He concluded: “This pragmatic decision will allow pubs, bars, and clubs to continue operating in a way that respects the choices of patrons while also prioritizing the wellbeing of local communities. We look forward to working with policymakers to ensure that our venues remain vibrant, safe, and welcoming spaces for all.”