Smoking is a major public health issue that requires action, and the evidence is clear. Despite efforts by tobacco companies to hide the truth, no one with scientific credibility has disputed the findings of Richard Doll, an Oxford epidemiologist who established the link between smoking and cancer as far back as 1950. In fact, statistics show that two out of three people who continue to smoke will die prematurely, and smoking is responsible for nine out of 10 cases of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
The financial burden on an already strained National Health Service due to smoking-related illnesses amounts to billions of pounds annually. This makes it clear that smoking restrictions are necessary for public health reasons. Compulsory seat belts in cars and helmets for motorcyclists were once opposed by a vocal libertarian minority, but now few argue against these safety measures. Similarly, limiting smoking rights should also be considered a necessary step towards improving public health.
In arguments regarding the merits of restricting smoking, libertarians are on the losing side. The “nanny state” is backed by science, common sense, and public opinion. It is time for us to take action and implement policies that protect public health from the harmful effects of smoking.