UK announces ban on disposable vapes amid concerns over youth usage

Disposable vapes are set to be barred as part of strategies to tackle the rising number of young people taking up vaping, the government states.
Disposable vapes are set to be barred as part of strategies to tackle the rising number of young people taking up vaping, the government states.

Disposable vapes are set to be barred as part of strategies to tackle the rising number of young people taking up vaping, the government states.

Introduction:

The UK government is set to introduce a ban on disposable vapes in an effort to curb the rising trend of youth vaping. 

The move comes as figures from the Action on Smoking and Health (Ash) charity reveal a significant increase in vaping among 11 to 17-year-olds, with 7.6% now reportedly vaping regularly or occasionally, up from 4.1% in 2020.

Preventing Marketing to Children:

Alongside the ban, measures will be implemented to prevent the marketing of vapes to children and to target underage sales. 

Although it is already illegal to sell vapes to anyone under 18, the government identifies disposable vapes, often sold in colorful packaging, as a key factor in the surge of youth vaping.

Nationwide Ban:

The ban is expected to be enforced across the entire UK, aiming to address the concerns surrounding youth access to and use of vaping products.

Prime Minister’s Statement:

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak emphasized the need for “strong action” to eliminate vaping among children, expressing concern over the addictive nature of vaping and the lack of understanding regarding its full long-term health impacts. 

He highlighted the importance of maintaining access to vapes for adult smokers seeking to quit while ensuring safeguards against children’s access.

Balancing Access for Adults and Youth Protections:

Sunak emphasized that the proposed measures strike a balance between restricting access for children and ensuring availability for adult smokers attempting to quit. 

The goal is to target factors that enable children to access vapes while supporting adults in their smoking cessation efforts.

Vaping Risks and NHS Perspective:

While vaping is considered substantially less harmful than smoking, the long-term risks are not yet fully understood. 

The NHS notes that the vapour inhaled during vaping can contain small amounts of chemicals found in cigarettes, including addictive nicotine. 

The government’s move aligns with ongoing efforts to create a “smoke-free generation,” following last year’s ban on cigarette sales to those born on or after January 1, 2009.

Anticipated Legislative Timeline:

Health Secretary Victoria Atkins expressed confidence that the proposed bill would pass Parliament before the expected general election later this year. If approved, the ban is slated to come into effect in early 2025, allowing retailers six months to implement the changes.

Gary Monroe

Gary Monroe is a seasoned contributor to the Los Angeles Business Magazine, where he offers insightful analysis on local business trends and economic developments. With a focus on Los Angeles' dynamic commercial landscape, Gary's articles provide valuable perspectives for entrepreneurs and business professionals in the city.

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