After calling an early general election last week, the smoking ban was not included in the “wash-up” period of legislation rushed through before parliament closes down. The current parliamentary session will be suspended on Friday, which means Sunak’s flagship smoking ban aiming to create a “smoke-free generation” will not be passed, reports AFP.



“Of course (I’m) disappointed not to be able to get that through at the end of the session, given the time available,” said Sunak.

“I stepped up to do something that is bold, that will make an enormous difference in the future of our country,” he added.

The smoking ban would have meant that anyone born on and after 1 January 2009 would never be able to legally buy tobacco products in the country.

Along with the smoking ban, a bill making it more difficult for landlords to evict tenants, a law to tighten venue security and Sunak’s Rwanda plan have all been put on hold for the moment.