The King’s Speech on 7th November 2023 included The Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which will restrict the sale of tobacco so that anyone turning 14 this year or younger will never legally be sold cigarettes. While e-cigarettes are not risk free, the Government supports the use of e-cigarettes as a means to stop adults smoking and contribute towards the goal of a smoke free England by 2030.
Some of the highest success rates of those trying to stop smoking are among adults using an e-cigarette, with evidence suggesting that an additional 70,000 people stop every year as a result of using these devices. An estimated 2.4 million vapers are former smokers, and Vaping Awareness Month - VApril - highlights the potential health benefits of making the switch.
However, it is deeply worrying that the number of children using vapes has tripled in the past three years, with 20.5 per cent of children having tried vaping in 2023.
I fully understand concerns by parents about underage sales of
vapes and the Government is actively considering proposals to tackle this
issue, including restricting flavours, regulating point of sale displays,
regulating packaging and considering restrictions on the sale of disposable vapes.
Working together with the devolved administrations, the Government
will ensure a consistent approach across the UK. A consultation
is currently taking place to gather views on several measures to
tackle youth vaping. You can respond to the consultation through this
link: https://consultations.dhsc.gov.uk/en/65201ed1f3410a69990d3081
In the meantime, a new “illicit vapes enforcement squad” – led by
Trading Standards – will enforce the rules on vaping and tackle
illicit vapes and underage sales. The enforcement squad will have the
power to remove illegal products from shops and at our borders.
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