London - Rishi Sunak is contemplating the introduction of some of the most stringent anti-smoking measures globally, effectively preventing the next generation from ever purchasing cigarettes.

Sources within Whitehall have indicated that the Prime Minister is exploring policies similar to those implemented by New Zealand in December of the previous year. These measures involve incrementally raising the legal smoking age, ultimately resulting in the prohibition of tobacco sales to individuals born on or after January 1, 2009.

Additionally, it is understood that Sunak's proposed policy of imposing a £10 fine for missing medical appointments could be revisited, although this could pose political challenges. The Prime Minister had initially announced this idea during his 2022 campaign, but it seemed to have been abandoned after he assumed office in the autumn.

The adoption of a New Zealand-style anti-smoking strategy would lead to the gradual phasing out of cigarettes for the upcoming generation. During the tenure of former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, New Zealand also enacted legislation to reduce the nicotine content of tobacco products and restricted their sale exclusively to specialty tobacco stores, discontinuing sales in convenience stores and supermarkets.

The Labour party had previously expressed its intent to consult on a gradual phase-out of cigarette sales to younger individuals, drawing inspiration from New Zealand's approach. Shadow Health Secretary Wes Streeting stated in January that they aimed to determine whether there was public support for such a change in the country.

These policy considerations form part of Sunak's team's new consumer-focused initiatives ahead of the upcoming election. This week, the Prime Minister faced criticism from business groups, centrist Tories, and environmental organizations for retracting his party's net-zero targets.

Furthermore, the government is contemplating changes in education policies, potentially shifting towards a system resembling the international baccalaureate, allowing students to study a broader range of subjects. This move has caused uncertainty in the education sector.

In response to these developments, Labour leader Keir Starmer accused the government of exacerbating economic instability and diverting attention from important national issues.

Sunak also faces pressure concerning the HS2 high-speed rail project, with discussions underway about potentially truncating the Birmingham to Manchester segment. This decision could anger northern Tory supporters and jeopardize seats won under Boris Johnson in 2019.

Sunak is reportedly adopting a "let Rishi be Rishi" approach, prioritizing policies that align with his personal convictions. However, changes in the net-zero agenda, as well as shifts in welfare and crime policies, appear to be politically motivated.

This autumn, Sunak's policy adjustments are expected to continue, with the party searching for strategies to reverse its declining popularity in polls. Recent polling indicates a decrease in the Prime Minister's favorability ratings, particularly after the net-zero policy changes were announced.

Regarding the potential New Zealand-style smoking ban, a government spokesperson emphasized the health hazards of smoking and the government's commitment to reducing smoking rates through various initiatives, including the distribution of free vape kits and incentives for pregnant women to quit smoking.