LONDON, April 26 -- Britain's parliament this week approved a bill to ban those aged 17 and under from ever legally buying tobacco products during their lifetime.

A first in Europe, the UK will be only the second country in the world to implement such a measure. Here are five things to know about the new landmark UK law.

What does it stipulate? 

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill legally bars anyone born on or after January 1, 2009 from buying cigarettes and other tobacco products in the UK, even after they become adults.

It hands the government new powers to restrict the flavours and packaging of vapes and bans vaping in places where smoking is already banned, which is extended to children's playgrounds and areas near schools.

Often co...