Vaping in cars with kids could be banned under new plans

The government wants to ban vaping in cars carrying children, as well as in playgrounds and outside schools.

Vapes are small devices that hold a liquid containing nicotine, an addictive substance found in cigarettes, as well as other harmful chemicals.

They're used by some adults to help them stop smoking, and it's illegal to sell vapes to anyone aged under 18.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting said children and patients should not have to suffer because others choose to smoke.

There will be a 12-week consultation with members of the public to see how such a ban would work - that's a process where people with an opinion can have their say on a ban and how it might work.

Any changes or bans that are approved would take 6 months to come into effect, the government says.

Indoor spaces - where smoking is already banned - would also become vape and heated tobacco-free, as would areas outside hospitals, if the plans are approved.

It's part of a set of proposed new laws that would bring in more rules around vapes and cigarettes.

The plan also aims to make vapes less appealing to children, with changes to the flavours and packaging of vaping products.

Outdoor venues like pub gardens and beaches are not included in the plans.

People will also be able to continue smoking and vaping in their homes if they want to.