Vaping would be banned in cars carrying children and in all indoor spaces where smoking is currently prohibited, as part of a public health push.

Vaping would still be permitted in hospitals and other health facilities to support smoking cessation, while smoking remains prohibited there.

The consultation aims to balance public health goals with practical implementation, and UK Hospitality has been approached for comment.

Business Minister Kate Dearden says the changes aim to protect families without placing extra burden on pubs, restaurants, or the hospitality sector, with outdoor hospitality spaces excluded.

The consultation would set a minimum six-month lead time before regulations take effect and would exclude outdoor hospitality venues from the changes to avoid harming trade.

Outdoor hospitality spaces are excluded from the changes following consultation feedback; the government pledges to support businesses while pursuing public health goals.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting emphasizes protecting children and the sick from secondhand smoke and the NHS, with warnings from Chief Medical Officer Sir Chris Whitty on health risks like asthma, cancer, stroke, and heart disease.

Support from health charities such as the British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research UK is cited, with UK Hospitality invited to comment.

Key voices include Health Secretary Wes Streeting, Chief Medical Officer Sir Chris Whitty, Business Minister Kate Dearden, and representatives from the British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research UK, all backing protective measures with targeted exemptions to minimize economic impact on hospitality.

The consultation is a step toward implementing the Tobacco and Vapes Bill currently moving through Parliament.

The Department of Health describes the consultation as a proportionate, workable move awaiting parliamentary action.

The plan would extend indoor smoke-free rules to outdoor areas near schools and hospitals, also making all indoor places previously banned for smoking vape-free and heated-tobacco-free, while outdoor areas such as bar, pub, and restaurant gardens and broad public spaces like beaches would be exempt.