Debates between Clive Efford and Virendra Sharma during the 2019-2024 Parliament

National No Smoking Day

Debate between Clive Efford and Virendra Sharma
Thursday 9th March 2023

(1 year, 9 months ago)

Westminster Hall
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Virendra Sharma Portrait Mr Virendra Sharma (Ealing, Southall) (Lab)
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It is a pleasure to speak under your chairmanship, Mr Efford. On No Smoking Day, I am delighted to welcome the progress we have made as a country, and I am grateful to the hon. Member for securing the debate. I must declare that I am a non-smoker. In only a few years, smoking policy has worked. It has massively reduced prevalence, and people are healthier, fitter and living longer. Given how few Members are present, Mr Efford, I understand that I can talk a little longer, rather than having to intervene two or three times.

Clive Efford Portrait Clive Efford (in the Chair)
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Order. Interventions should be short. Why not just make a short contribution?

Virendra Sharma Portrait Mr Sharma
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I accept that. Working-class and black and minority ethnic communities are struggling to quit, and need more complex solutions. Does the hon. Member agree that vaping represents a less harmful alternative?