UK Provides Free Cigarettes to Ukrainian Soldiers Amid Training
Despite anti-smoking policies, the Ministry of Defence facilitated duty-free cigarette provisions to support Ukrainian troops' morale during their training in the UK.
- The Ministry of Defence arranged for free, duty-free cigarettes for Ukrainian soldiers training in the UK to address their complaints about high costs and scarcity.
- Ben Wallace, the then Defence Secretary, coordinated the effort, ensuring no public funds were used and that healthier alternatives were also provided.
- The initiative faced legal hurdles but proceeded with support from the Treasury and without opposition from the Department of Health.
- Cigarettes were included as part of the soldiers' rations, emulating historical practices from the World Wars.
- The policy contrasts with the UK government's recent legislation aimed at banning smoking for future generations, highlighting a complex balance between public health and military support.
The Telegraph 
Evening Standard 