However, net cost to the state when you factor in inability to work, etc is estimated at twice the tax revenue.
Your point that smokers die younger and so cost the state less is a contentious topic with lots of debate. One thing that is clear is that tobacco firms are actively pushing that narrative, which, given the industry’s history with regards to data and studies like this makes me instantly suspicious: https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB995230746855683470
https://fullfact.org/health/farage-smoking-revenue-nhs/
However, net cost to the state when you factor in inability to work, etc is estimated at twice the tax revenue.
Your point that smokers die younger and so cost the state less is a contentious topic with lots of debate. One thing that is clear is that tobacco firms are actively pushing that narrative, which, given the industry’s history with regards to data and studies like this makes me instantly suspicious: https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB995230746855683470