Assembly Members passed a major bill aimed at improving and protecting Wales' health on Tuesday.

The Public Health (Wales) Bill, stops people smoking in workplaces, public places, outdoor care settings for children, school grounds, hospital grounds and public playgrounds. 

A previous section banning e-cigarettes in some enclosed places was dropped from the legislation. 

Minister for Social Services and Public Health Rebecca Evans said: “This is a landmark day for public health in Wales. The Public Health (Wales) Bill is a radical piece of legislation which will improve and protect the health and wellbeing of the nation.

“Once law, the Bill will make a real difference to people in Wales.

“Children will be protected from the harms of second-hand smoke and the dangers of intimate piercing; better planning of public toilet provision should mean older people, people with disabilities, and people caring for young children won’t be put off leaving the house; while anybody undergoing a special procedure will be able to have confidence that the person carrying it out has safe working practices.

“I would like to thank all of the partners who worked with us to develop the Bill, and Assembly Members, whose constructive scrutiny has strengthened the final legislation.

"This radical new law will have a significant, lasting positive impact on health in Wales.”

The Bill is awaiting Royal Assent if there is no legal challenge before it comes into force.