Written question asked by Bob Blackman (Conservative) on Thursday, 5 March 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 9 March 2026. It was answered by Sharon Hodgson (Labour) on Monday, 30 March 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Smoking

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent assessment his Department has made of the UK’s progress towards achieving a smoke-free society.

Answer

Smoking prevalence continues to fall across the United Kingdom. In 2024, approximately 5.3 million people aged 18 years old and over were current smokers, 10.6% of the adult population. This is the lowest proportion of current smokers since records began, but we are determined to continue this trend at pace and create a smoke-free UK.

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill is in its final stages, and Royal Assent should take place as soon as possible in this parliamentary session. This will create a smoke-free generation and will ensure we are on track towards a smoke-free UK.

In addition to the bill, the Government is committed to supporting existing smokers to quit. From this April, we will ringfence all funding for stop smoking services in the Public Health Grant, meaning at least £150 million per year will be protected for these services. This will provide greater certainty and flexibility for local areas to invest in these vital services.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 118166
Session: 2024-26
Subjects: Smoking
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk

Smoking

Secondary information

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