Pregnant mums will be handed free vapes by a South London council to stop them spending money on cigarettes. Lambeth Council estimates the scheme will save parents £2,000 a year - money they would otherwise squander on tobacco.

Smokers who are pregnant or care for young kids will be handed electronic cigarette products as part of the council’s stop smoking service. Officials at the Labour-run council hope the plan will improve people’s health and help them with the rocketing cost of living.