Robin Swann and Alan Chambers have welcomed the granting of Royal Assent to the Tobacco and Vapes Act, describing it as a defining moment for public health in Northern Ireland and the delivery of a long-standing Ulster Unionist Ministerial priority.

The UK-wide legislation introduces sweeping measures to create a smoke-free generation and tackle the growing problem of youth vaping.

Ulster Unionist MP Robin Swann said:

“As Health Minister in 2024, I supported the development and direction of this legislation, building on the action we had already taken to strengthen tobacco control and protect public health. More recently, I have engaged extensively during the Bill’s passage at Westminster.

“This Act sends a strong signal that we are serious about creating a smoke-free generation and ensuring that today’s children are not tomorrow’s patients. Protecting young people from addiction and reducing preventable deaths has always been central to my approach.”

Ulster Unionist Health Spokesperson Alan Chambers MLA said:

“This is a landmark step forward for public health. Smoking causes over 2,000 deaths annually in Northern Ireland and remains a major driver of health inequality.

“The legislation strikes the right balance, supporting those who want to quit while putting firm protections in place to stop children and young people being drawn into addiction.

“The Assembly’s most recent support for Mike Nesbitt’s request for a Legislative Consent Motion on the matter reflected the strength of feeling across Northern Ireland, and I am delighted to see that work now delivered in law and about to make a real difference.”