The news that a ban on smoking in cars with children will be implemented is the result of hard work by campaigners, organisations and individuals and a big step in reducing the harmful effects of tobacco.

Shirley Cramer CBE, Chief Executive, RSPH, said: “Children are extremely vulnerable through exposure to tobacco use and I am delighted by the Government response to this campaign and the work of our President Lord Hunt who has been at the forefront of the campaign. It is a step in the right direction in protecting the health of future generations and a real victory for those leading the campaign including ASH and the British Lung Foundation.

"UCL researchers, in their letter to the BMJ, have stated that the number of adults who smoke in England has fallen below 20% for the first time in 80 years which is an encouraging figure and indicates that advocay efforts have been very successful over the longterm.”