The UK government is set to ban smoking outside schools and hospitals as part of a comprehensive strategy to address one of the nation's leading causes of cancer and preventable deaths.

The upcoming tobacco and vapes bill, expected to be introduced to parliament on Tuesday, aims to eradicate smoking by annually increasing the legal age to purchase cigarettes until the practice becomes illegal altogether.

The legislation will also impose strict regulations on vaping, including bans on advertising, limitations on flavors, packaging, and marketing to curb its appeal to children and young adults.

However, the government's decision not to extend the smoking ban to outdoor areas of pubs and restaurants has sparked criticism.

Health advocates argue that this move protects commercial interests over public health, pointing to the harmful effects of secondhand smoke in hospitality settings.

Hospitality industry leaders, meanwhile, have welcomed the decision, citing concerns over potential job losses.

Similar outdoor smoking bans already exist in cities like New York and Melbourne, and are being considered in areas such as Greater Manchester.

The UK's Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty, supports a comprehensive outdoor smoking ban, noting its potential to reduce health issues such as stillbirths, asthma in children, and various chronic diseases.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting will discuss these measures as part of the most significant anti-smoking efforts since the indoor smoking ban in 2007.