CHILDREN born after January 1, 2009, will never legally be able to buy cigarettes under controversial laws welcomed by Wiltshire health leaders.

The Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026, which has now received Royal Assent, introduces a “generational ban” on tobacco sales alongside tighter restrictions on vaping, including a ban on vape advertising and sponsorship.

Supporters say the legislation could save thousands of lives and dramatically reduce pressure on the NHS. Critics, however, have questioned whether the move goes too far in limiting personal choice.

Wiltshire Council has thrown its support behind the law, which will begin rolling out from January 2027.

Cabinet Member for Public Health and Co-ordination with the NHS Cllr Clare Cape said: “I welcome the Royal Assent of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which strengthens our ability to protect children and young people while supporting adults to quit smoking for good.

“Smoking-related illness places a huge burden on families, communities and health services.”

The legislation also gives ministers powers to create more smoke-free spaces and introduces a licensing scheme for shops selling tobacco and nicotine products.

Health officials say smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death across the South West, where more than 520,000 adults still smoke.

Wiltshire’s Director of Public Health, Kate Blackburn, described the new law as “a landmark moment for public health”.

She said: “Smoking remains the biggest causes of preventable ill health and early death, and this new legislation will help protect future generations from the harms of tobacco while creating a safer, healthier Wiltshire.”

Council figures show almost 26,000 people across the South West attempted to quit smoking in the year to March 2025 – a sharp rise on the previous year.

Wiltshire Council says residents wanting to quit can access free support through Smokefree Wiltshire, as well as through GPs, pharmacies and stop-smoking apps.