BOTH of Halton’s MPs voted in Parliament on the proposed Tobacco and Vapes Bill.

The Government says it plans to create a ‘smoke-free generation’ by gradually raising the age at which tobacco can be bought.

Anyone born after January 1, 2009, will be prevented from legally smoking if the Tobacco and Vapes Bill becomes law.

The Bill, which MPs backed 415 to 47, with a majority of 368, in a vote on Tuesday, could give ministers the power to ban or limit flavours, and make regulations about packaging.

The legislation includes a total ban on vape advertising and sponsorship, including displays seen by children and young people such as on buses, in cinemas and in shop windows, bringing them in line with tobacco restrictions.

The draft law faces further scrutiny at a later date.

Both Widnes and Halewood MP Derek Twigg and Runcorn and Helsby MP Mike Amesbury, both elected as Labour MPs, but with Mr Amesbury now sitting as an independent, voted in line with the Labour Government in favour of the Bill.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch was among the MPs to vote against the Bill at second reading, according to the division list.

There was a free vote for Tory MPs, with former health secretary Victoria Atkins among the 23 Conservatives who voted in favour of the Bill.

The division list showed 35 Tories voted against, with former home secretary Suella Braverman joining Mrs Badenoch in the no lobby.

The division list also showed seven Liberal Democrats, who also had a free vote, and four Reform MPs opposed the Bill.