Vaping in cars with children could be banned under new plans

The government has launched a 12-week consultation on proposals to restrict smoking and vaping in cars carrying children and medically vulnerable people. Officials say the findings will help shape regulations under the Tobacco and Vapes Bill.

The UK government has opened a public consultation on proposals to ban smoking and vaping in cars when children or medically vulnerable people are present. Ministers and health officials say the aim is to reduce exposure to second-hand smoke and protect those at higher medical risk. The proposals form part of the government's wider 10-year health plan focusing on prevention rather than treatment. The consultation asks for views on settings, exemptions and how any rules would be communicated. Key details: - Health Secretary Wes Streeting said children and patients should not have to suffer because others choose to smoke and highlighted health risks from second-hand smoke. - A public consultation has been launched and will run for 12 weeks, closing on 8 May 2026. - The government says findings will inform future regulations under the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which is currently progressing through Parliament. Summary: If adopted, the proposed measures aim to reduce second-hand smoke exposure for children and medically vulnerable people. The consultation results will be used to shape regulations under the Tobacco and Vapes Bill; the bill is still progressing through Parliament.