UK Doctors and Advocates Urge Government to Prioritize Anti-Smoking Policies in New Budget
Over 200 UK doctors, professional groups, and advocacy organizations are calling on Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Labour Party to commit to anti-smoking policies and funding as the government prepares to reveal its budget priorities at the end of the month. Concerns have been raised that the new government may soften its approach to tobacco control.
In an open letter published in the BMJ, signatories emphasized the importance of preserving anti-smoking plans introduced by the previous conservative leadership, such as crackdowns on black market sales and financial incentives to help pregnant smokers quit. They are also urging dedicated long-term funding for these programs and at least £10 million over the next five years for anti-smoking efforts in lower-income countries.
Smoking remains a leading cause of preventable deaths worldwide, killing approximately 75,000 people in the UK and 8 million people globally each year. Despite the significant health and financial toll of smoking, there are concerns that funding for tobacco control initiatives could be reduced in the upcoming budget.
Experts suggest implementing a “polluter pays” tax on tobacco manufacturers to help fund anti-smoking programs and reduce smoking rates in the UK. Meanwhile, European Union lawmakers are also considering measures to extend smoking bans to outdoor areas as part of a broader effort to achieve a “tobacco-free generation” by 2040.
The group of doctors and advocates are urging the UK government to seize the opportunity presented by the upcoming budget to prioritize anti-smoking initiatives and solidify the nation’s position as a global leader in tobacco control.
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