Children aged 17 or younger will face a lifelong ban on buying cigarettes, as the Tobacco and Vapes Bill clears Parliament.

Both the Commons and Lords have settled on a final draft of the “landmark” legislation that aims to stop anyone born after 1 January 2009 from taking up smoking by making it illegal for shops to sell them tobacco, to create a smoke-free generation. When it gets royal assent, ministers will also have new powers to regulate tobacco, vaping and nicotine products, including their flavours and packaging.

Vaping will be banned in cars carrying children, in playgrounds and outside schools and at hospitals, expanding smoke-free laws. Vaping would still be allowed outside hospitals in a bid to support those trying to quit.

Outdoor hospitality venues like pub gardens and wider open spaces such as beaches and private outdoor spaces are not included in the plans.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the approval of the bill was a historic moment for ​the nation’s health. “Prevention is better than cure – this reform will save lives, ‌ease ⁠pressure on the NHS, and build a healthier Britain.”