Cigarettes – a ubiquitous presence in the UK, ingrained in our culture and a daily habit for millions of people. As a non-smoker, I have always been fascinated by the allure and widespread use of cigarettes. In this article, I will delve into the world of cigarettes in the UK – from their history and impact on society to the current regulations and packaging changes.
Let us start with the history of cigarettes in the UK. The first recorded use of tobacco in the UK dates back to the 16th century, when it was introduced by Sir Walter Raleigh. Initially, it was used for medicinal purposes and as a luxury item for the wealthy. However, by the 19th century, tobacco had become more affordable and cigarettes began to gain popularity. The first commercial cigarette factory opened in London in 1847, and by the early 20th century, cigarettes had become the most popular form of tobacco in the UK.
Throughout the 20th century, the cigarette industry in the UK grew and evolved. Brands such as Benson & Hedges, Marlboro, and Silk Cut dominated the market, with sleek packaging and catchy slogans. Cigarette advertising was also a prominent feature in UK media, with powerful campaigns aimed at portraying smoking as a sophisticated and desirable habit.
However, in the 1950s, the first major blow to the cigarette industry came with the publication of the “Smoking and Health” report by the Royal College of Physicians. The report highlighted the link between smoking and health issues such as lung cancer and heart disease, sparking public concern and leading to the first warnings on cigarette packaging in 1971. Since then, the UK government has taken various steps to regulate the production, marketing, and sale of cigarettes.
One of the most significant changes in recent years has been the banning of smoking in indoor workplaces and public spaces, including pubs and restaurants. This has not only been beneficial for non-smokers but has also led to a decline in smoking rates, as smokers have to go outside to smoke, making it a less convenient habit. According to the Office for National Statistics, the percentage of adults in the UK who smoke has decreased from 45% in 1974 to 14.7% in 2019.
Another major change in the world of cigarettes in the UK has been the introduction of plain packaging in 2016. This means that all cigarettes must be sold in standardized, dark green packages with graphic health warnings taking up the majority of the packaging. This move has been heavily criticized by the tobacco industry, with claims that it will lead to an increase in counterfeiting and have little impact on smoking rates. However, studies have shown that plain packaging has a significant influence on young people and can discourage them from starting to smoke.
In addition to plain packaging, the UK government has also increased the legal age for buying cigarettes from 16 to 18 in 2007, and recently to 21 in 2021. This is a step towards reducing the number of young people who take up smoking. The government has also implemented a ban on menthol cigarettes, which are seen as more appealing to young people due to their minty flavor.
Despite these efforts, the UK still has a significant number of smokers, with approximately 7.2 million adults regularly smoking according to the most recent statistics. This not only has a major impact on individuals’ health but also puts a strain on the NHS. The economic cost of smoking in the UK is estimated to be over £12 billion a year, with a further £12 billion in lost productivity due to smoking-related illnesses.
So why do so many people continue to smoke in the UK? As a non-smoker, it is difficult for me to understand the appeal of cigarettes. However, through my research, I have come to learn that smoking is not just a physical addiction, but also a strong social and emotional habit for many people. Cigarettes can provide a sense of comfort, a break from stress, and a way to socialize with other smokers. Additionally, the nicotine in cigarettes is a highly addictive substance, making it challenging for smokers to quit.
In conclusion, cigarettes have a long and complex history in the UK, from their introduction as a luxury item to their regulation and packaging changes. While the government has taken significant steps to reduce smoking rates and improve public health, the UK still has a significant number of smokers. As a society, we must continue to educate and support smokers to kick this harmful habit and prioritize their health.