The podcast discusses the UK government's decision to ban tobacco sales to those born after 2009, investigating opposition to the ban and exploring lobbying strategies by tobacco firms. The hosts also analyze English vocabulary used in news headlines, showcasing terms like 'derail' and 'bonkers'.
The UK government plans to ban tobacco sales to those born after 2009, aiming to create a smoke-free generation.
UK Prime Minister faces backlash from Conservative party members and tobacco firms lobbying against the smoking ban proposal.
Deep dives
UK Lawmakers Approve Ban on Cigarette Sales to Younger Generations
Buying cigarettes will be illegal for individuals born after 2009 for their entire lives in the UK. This move aims to create a smoke-free generation by prohibiting the sale of tobacco products. While smoking itself will remain legal, this law targets reducing the significant impact of tobacco use on public health as it is the leading preventable cause of death in the UK, claiming 80,000 lives annually.
Political Opposition and Influence of Tobacco Firms on Smoking Ban Proposal
Rishi Sunak, the UK Prime Minister, faces backlash from his Conservative party against a long-term smoking ban. The term 'backlash' refers to a strong rejection of an idea, with members opposing the proposed ban on smoking. Additionally, tobacco firms have been lobbying Members of Parliament to influence decisions, attempting to derail the plan to ban smoking. 'Derail' signifies preventing a proposal from reaching its intended destination, often used for controversial plans like banning smoking. The former Prime Minister Boris Johnson criticized the smoking ban proposal as 'nuts,' indicating his view that it is a crazy idea.