Displaying items by tag: new bill

MPs have overwhelmingly backed a new Tobacco and Vapes bill aimed at phasing out smoking by making it illegal for anyone aged fifteen or younger today to ever purchase cigarettes. Originally proposed by the Conservatives, the bill was advanced by Labour and passed its first Commons vote with a majority of 415 to 47. It also seeks to curb youth vaping through advertising bans, packaging restrictions, and flavour limitations. Health secretary Wes Streeting described it as a landmark public health intervention aimed at preventing addiction, reducing NHS pressures, and fostering a healthier population. Despite broad support, some MPs, including Kemi Badenoch and Suella Braverman, opposed the bill, citing concerns over civil liberties. Others questioned the practicality of age-based restrictions and the potential expansion of outdoor smoking bans. Proponents argue the measures address tobacco's uniquely harmful and addictive nature, aiming to create a smoke-free generation and protect youth from nicotine addiction. Further scrutiny in Parliament is expected before the bill becomes law.

The Renters' Rights Bill, appearing in Parliament on 12 September, aims to provide the most significant shift in tenant-landlord relations since 1988. It will ban ‘no-fault’ evictions, a leading cause of homelessness, replacing them with Section 8, which allows evictions for valid reasons like unpaid rent or a landlord’s need to reclaim the property. The bill will also include longer eviction notice periods and extend an eviction-free protected period at the start of tenancies. It will target the skyrocketing cost of private renting by empowering tenants to challenge unfair rent increases and banning rental bidding wars. It will also apply the Decent Homes Standard to private rentals, ensuring that landlords maintain safe, hazard-free homes. Additionally, renters will gain the right to keep pets, and discrimination against tenants on benefits or with children will be outlawed. Both landlord and renter advocacy groups have supported aspects of the bill, though concerns remain about enforcement and local council resources.