I have to admit I’m a smoker. It’s been a part of my life for many years, ever since I was a teenager. I just enjoy the taste of cigarettes. But over the years, I’ve seen a big change in smoking in the UK. The regulations are a lot stricter, and it’s nearly impossible to enjoy a cigarette without running into one rule or another.
For starters, cigarettes in the UK are now only sold in plain packaging. That’s right, gone are the days of designer cigarette packs and colourful designs. Now all cigarettes have to be packaged in a standardised package—no frills, just plain, dull packaging. Sure, the branding is still present but it’s nothing like what it used to be.
The other major change I’ve noticed over the years is the amount of taxes imposed on cigarettes. The government has increased taxes on cigarettes several times over the last decade. Not only is the value-added tax (VAT) applied on cigarettes, but a specific tax for cigarettes is also imposed. So all in all, you’re looking at a hefty price tag for a pack of cigarettes these days.
And then there’s the smoke-free laws. Smoking in public places has been illegal in the UK since 2007. That means no more smoking in pubs, restaurants, or even parks. Now if you want to light up, you have to go outside or find a designated area in which it’s allowed.
So as you can see, it’s getting harder and harder to smoke in the UK these days. Not to mention the health implications of smoking, which are becoming more and more apparent.
But despite all the regulations and taxes, people still smoke in the UK. Many people are still addicted to nicotine and find it hard to quit. Others just enjoy it and smoke socially. Regardless of why people choose to smoke, it’s become a fact of life in the UK.
To sum it up, cigarettes in the UK have undergone a lot of changes over the years. Taxation has been increased and regulations have been tightened. But despite all these regulations, people still find ways to smoke and enjoy the pleasures of cigarettes.