There is no doubt that fewer people smoke now than in the past. In 1980, the percentage of adult smokers stood at 39 per cent; in 2012 that figure was down to 20 per cent, according to the NHS Information Centre. However, in recent years, this reduction has slowed and smoking prevalence has fallen little since 2007. Smoking is still highest among younger age groups €“ 29 per cent in those aged 20-24, and those with manual occupations. Smoking is also higher in certain ethnic groups, such as Bangladeshi and Pakistani men, and Irish men and women.

Despite the overall decrease in smoking prevalence, the number of teenager smokers remains a concern. According to the NHS Information Centre's figures from 2013, 23 per cent of pupils aged 11 to 15 in England have tried smoking at least once. Around two-thirds of current smokers claim that they started smoking before the age of 18.