Lords completes scrutiny of Tobacco and Vapes Bill

The House of Lords has completed its detailed examination of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, concluding its Third Reading on 9 March 2026, marking the final stage of scrutiny in the upper chamber. The Bill—one of the government’s flagship public health measures—will now return to the House of Commons for consideration of amendments proposed by peers.

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill forms a central part of the government’s long-term strategy to reduce smoking rates and curb youth vaping. While the Bill originated in the House of Commons during the 2024–26 parliamentary session, the Lords’ role has been to examine its provisions line by line, propose revisions, and ensure the legislation is workable and enforceable.

The Third Reading offered peers a final opportunity to refine the Bill. Although no major new amendments were introduced at this stage, the session confirmed the Lords’ final position on earlier changes made during Committee and Report stages.

With the Lords’ scrutiny now complete, the Bill enters the “ping-pong” phase, during which the Commons will consider the amendments made by the upper chamber. MPs may accept, reject, or propose alternatives to the Lords’ changes. The process continues until both Houses agree on the final text.

According to the parliamentary update, the Bill’s next step is formal consideration of Lords amendments by the Commons, scheduled following its return from the upper chamber.