A law introducing plain cigarette packaging in England and Wales could come into force in 2016 after ministers said MPs would be asked to vote on the plan before May's general election.
It follows a series of public consultations on the issue.
Public Health Minister Jane Ellison told MPs the move was likely to have a positive impact on public health, particularly for children.
Labour has already pledged to ban images on packets if it wins power.
And doctors say the move would save thousands of lives.
BBC health editor Hugh Pym said the changes could come into force as soon as 2016 if Parliament passes legislation before the end of March.
'Not complacent'
Ms Ellison said all the evidence pointed to the step having a positive impact - although she warned of a potential legal challenge from the cigarette industry which strongly opposes the move.
"We cannot be complacent. We all know the damage smoking does to health," she said.
"This government is completely committed to protecting children from the harm that tobacco causes."
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Public Health Minister Jane Ellison announced plans for a vote on plain packaging
A review of the public health implications of standardised packaging last year by Sir Cyril Chantler concluded it was very likely their introduction would lead to a modest but important reduction in the uptake and prevalence of smoking.
MPs are now expected to be given a free vote on the issue before Parliament is dissolved ahead of the general election campaign, which begins in April.
(Apologies in advance for the following rant, cigar aficionado rage incoming)
Why do these dickheads want to take my tobacco away so badly? When I was a kid they still allowed smoking in restaurants and even public parks with playgrounds, now I can't think of any place that allows smoking inside except for my local cigar lounge. On the contrary, I see these whimps with those pussy e-cigs and vaporware shit puffing in movie theaters, libraries, and classrooms.
It just seems like such a stupid thing to get fussy over, taking away peoples right to enjoy something. Most smokers will never get cancer, if I get it in 50 years who cares who the fuck wants to be old for most of their existance anyways?
Bottom line: Britain, Your nanny state is out of fucking control and you need to something about it. With how close Obama and Cameron are getting over political issues like surveillance and this I'm guessing this will (unfortunately) try to make it's way across the pond soon. Your thoughts, NSG?
