The government has launched a new consultation on stopping people smoking, vaping or using heated tobacco in public playgrounds and education settings in England.

Under the proposals, areas outside healthcare locations would also become smoke-free and heated tobacco-free.

Indoor spaces where smoking is already banned would also become vape-free and heated tobacco-free.

The proposals are part of the 10 Year Health Plan and the shift from sickness to prevention.

Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, said: "No child in a playground or hospital patient should suffer because someone else chooses to smoke.

"Second-hand smoke increases the risk of heart disease and lung cancer and we want to protect children and the sick from harm.

"Prevention is better than cure, so this government is taking pressure off the NHS and building a healthier Britain where everyone lives well for longer."

Professor Chris Whitty, Chief Medical Officer for England, said: "People who do not smoke but who are exposed to second-hand smoke can suffer significant harmful effects on their health, including an increased risk of asthma, poor birth outcomes, several cancers, stroke and heart disease. The health risks are greatest for children, pregnant women and people with medical conditions.

"No smoker wants to harm people, but with second-hand smoke they do - and these measures would reduce the harm second-hand smoke causes the most medically vulnerable in our society."