UK’s Department of Health and Social Care has launched a public consultation on proposals that could ban smoking and vaping in outdoor areas around hospitals, schools, and children’s playgrounds, Tobacco Journal reports. Indoor spaces where smoking is already prohibited would also become vape-free and heated tobacco-free under the plans.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting said: “No child in a playground or hospital patient should suffer because someone else chooses to smoke.” The consultation will explore evidence on second-hand smoke outdoors and its impact on children and medically vulnerable people, as well as practical issues like boundaries, exemptions, and communication of restrictions.

The government clarified that outdoor hospitality areas, such as pub beer gardens, will be excluded. Kate Dearden noted the proposals aim to protect children and families without adding pressure on the hospitality sector.