UK Considers Ban on Vaping in Cars Carrying Children

UK government moves to protect young people from second-hand smoke and vaping.

Vaping in cars carrying children could soon be banned under new proposals from the UK government, aimed at protecting youngsters from exposure to second-hand smoke and vapour.

The plans, currently under a 12-week public consultation across England, would restrict smoking, vaping, and the use of heated tobacco products in several settings involving children. These include cars transporting minors, playgrounds, and areas outside schools.

According to Wes Streeting, children and patients should not suffer the health consequences of others’ habits.

“Second-hand smoke increases the risk of heart disease and lung cancer, and we want to protect children and the sick from harm,” he said.

“Prevention is better than cure, so this government is taking pressure off the NHS and building a healthier Britain where everyone lives well for longer.”

Indoor public spaces, where smoking is already prohibited, would also become heated tobacco-free under the proposals. Areas outside hospitals are included, although vaping would still be permitted there to support people trying to quit smoking.

Medical experts have backed the initiative. Chris Whitty warned of serious risks linked to second-hand smoke, including asthma, cancers, heart disease, stroke, and poor birth outcomes. He stressed that the measures could reduce harm among the most vulnerable in society.

The proposals form part of a wider ten-year health strategy designed to shift national healthcare priorities from treating illness to prevention, while also easing pressure on the National Health Service.

The consultation, launched this week and running until 8 May 2026, invites public feedback on where restrictions should apply, possible exemptions, and how they should be enforced. The outcome will inform future regulations under the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, currently progressing through Parliament.

Outdoor hospitality spaces such as pub gardens, beaches, and private outdoor areas are not part of the proposed restrictions. People would also remain free to smoke or vape inside their homes.

Health advocates have welcomed the initiative. The British Heart Foundation has called for swift action, saying stronger rules are needed to protect vulnerable individuals and prevent avoidable deaths linked to smoking.

If approved, enforcement would follow existing smoke-free regulations, with at least six months between the final decision and implementation.