Proposed legislation aimed at creating the “first smoke-free generation” is due to be introduced into parliament today.

The Tobacco and Vaping Bill, which prevents anyone born after January 1, 2009 from smoking legally by gradually raising the age at which tobacco can be bought, will be introduced in the House of Commons on Tuesday.

It is hoped the “historic” legislation could “save thousands of lives and protect the NHS”, according to ministers.

Powers to ban indoor smoking could also be extended to some outdoor spaces, with children’s playgrounds and outside schools and hospitals being considered.

The bill will introduce restrictions on vaping advertising and sponsorship, as well as restricting the flavours, displays and packaging of e-cigarettes to reduce their appeal to children and young people.

Single-use vaporizers will be banned from 1 June 2025 under separate environmental legislation.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting said: “Unless we act to help people stay healthy, the rising tide of ill-health in our society threatens to overwhelm and bankrupt our NHS. Prevention is better than cure.

“This government is taking bold action to create the first smoke-free generation, to limit children’s exposure to nicotine through vaping and to protect children and vulnerable people from the harm of secondhand smoke.

“This historic legislation will save thousands of lives and protect the NHS. By building a healthy society, we will also help build a healthy economy with fewer people sick from work.

A similar bill was tabled by the previous government, but was abandoned as a result of the general election being called.

The proposals were revived by the Labor government in July.