Cigarettes. The mere mention of this word evokes strong reactions and opinions from people all over the world. For some, it represents a symbol of relaxation and indulgence, while for others, it symbolizes sickness and addiction. As a resident of the United Kingdom, I have witnessed the complex relationship between the people and cigarettes on a daily basis. In this article, I will delve into the world of cigarettes in the UK – from its history to its current status, and the efforts of the government to curb its consumption.
Cigarettes have been around for centuries, with the earliest known references dating back to the 9th century in Central America. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that cigarettes became popular in Europe, with a rise in production and consumption during the industrial revolution. In the UK specifically, cigarettes were first introduced in the mid-19th century as a luxury item, smoked by the upper class and aristocrats. However, it wasn’t until the two World Wars that cigarettes became increasingly popular among the masses, as they were included in soldiers’ rations and became associated with the ‘cool’ and ‘masculine’ lifestyle of war heroes.
Fast forward to the present day, and cigarettes have become an integral part of UK’s culture. According to a report by Cancer Research UK, around 15.1% of adults in the UK are smokers, and it is estimated that more than 80,000 people die every year due to smoking-related illnesses. This alarming statistic has led to numerous efforts by the government to discourage and reduce smoking in the UK.
One of the most significant efforts by the government is the implementation of the ‘Tobacco Control Plan’ in 2011, which aims to reduce the prevalence of smoking in the UK to 5% or below by the year 2030. This plan includes measures such as increasing the price of cigarettes through taxation, enforcing strict regulations on packaging and advertising, and providing support for smokers who want to quit. As a result of these efforts, we have seen a gradual decline in smoking rates in the UK.
One of the most noticeable changes is the introduction of plain packaging for all tobacco products in 2017. This means that all cigarette packs must now be a standard size, with graphic health warnings covering 65% of the front and back of the pack. The brand name must be written in a standard font and size, with no logos or colors. The intention behind this is to remove any attractive or appealing branding and make the harmful effects of smoking more evident to potential and current smokers. Research has shown that plain packaging has been effective in reducing the appeal of cigarettes, especially among the younger demographic.
Another significant measure taken by the government is the banning of smoking in enclosed public places. Since 2007, it has been illegal to smoke in any enclosed public space or workplace, including pubs, restaurants, and public transportation. This has significantly reduced the exposure of non-smokers to secondhand smoke and has also made it slightly more inconvenient for smokers to light up in public. However, it is worth noting that this ban does not extend to outdoor spaces, which has been a topic of debate among the public.
While the government’s efforts to reduce smoking in the UK are commendable, it is clear that smoking is still prevalent and deeply ingrained in our society. This is partly due to the fact that cigarettes are readily available and relatively affordable. You can find packets of cigarettes in almost every corner shop, supermarket, and even vending machines in public places. The average cost of a pack of 20 cigarettes in the UK is around £10, making it a highly profitable industry for both the government and tobacco companies.
Despite the continued availability and affordability of cigarettes, there has been a noticeable shift in the attitudes towards smoking in the UK. Growing awareness of the health risks and the government’s efforts to discourage smoking have led to a decline in social acceptance of smoking. Nowadays, it is not uncommon to receive disapproving looks or comments when lighting up a cigarette in public. Moreover, there has been a rise in the popularity of alternatives to traditional cigarettes, such as e-cigarettes or vape pens, among those who are trying to quit.
As a non-smoker, I have always found the smell and smoke of cigarettes unpleasant. I have also seen firsthand the detrimental effects of smoking on the health of my loved ones who were once addicted to this habit. Nevertheless, I do believe in the individual’s right to choose and make informed decisions for themselves. Therefore, I am not in favor of complete prohibition of cigarettes, as it may lead to an underground market and other illegal activities. I believe the key lies in providing support and resources for smokers who want to quit, while also implementing stricter regulations on the production and sale of cigarettes.
In conclusion, cigarettes in the UK have a long and complex history, and it is evident that they have come a long way from being considered a luxury item to a highly regulated and socially unacceptable habit. The government’s efforts to reduce smoking in the UK have shown positive results, but it is still a prevalent habit in our society. As a nation, we must continue to educate and raise awareness about the harmful effects of smoking, while also providing support for those who are trying to quit. At the end of the day, it is up to each individual to make the decision to quit or continue smoking, but we must strive towards a healthier and smoke-free society for the benefit of all.