The UK government is contemplating significant measures to address the growing concern of youth vaping. Labour, in particular, is considering a ban on disposable e-cigarettes as part of a broader strategy to reduce nicotine use among children.
Government officials are developing plans to limit the sale of vapes and other nicotine products to minors. These restrictions may include regulations on branding, flavors, packaging, and display of these products. The potential ban on single-use vapes, which have gained popularity among young people due to their compact and colorful packaging, is also under consideration.
Recent data indicates a substantial increase in vaping among youth. As of September 2024, 7.2% of individuals aged 11 to 17 use vapes regularly or occasionally, up from 4.1% in 2020. Nearly one in five (18%) in this age group admit to having tried vaping.
The government's approach aims to strike a balance between supporting adult smoking cessation and preventing youth nicotine addiction. Lucy Powell, Leader of the House of Commons, has pledged to "tackle the scourge of vaping." This commitment aligns with the government's broader tobacco control efforts.
A key component of these efforts is the tobacco and vapes bill, which proposes a progressive smoking ban. This legislation would prevent individuals born on or after January 1, 2009, from legally purchasing cigarettes. The bill also grants ministers the authority to regulate vape flavors, packaging, and display, potentially restricting flavors that appeal to children, such as bubble gum and candy floss.
The British Medical Association has advocated for more stringent measures, including banning all vape flavors except tobacco, prohibiting disposable vapes, eliminating branding on packaging and devices, and keeping vapes behind store counters.
"I support the banning of disposable vapes, not least because of the impact they have on children. We have been campaigning for this for two years. So I have a question for the Government which is why has it taken two years to get to this stage. We have wasted two years."
In addition to these regulatory measures, the government is considering a new "vape tax." This tax, proposed in the 2024 budget, could add up to £3 per 10 milliliters of nicotine-containing liquids, potentially taking effect in October 2026.
The e-cigarette industry has faced criticism for potentially targeting youth with flavored products. It's worth noting that the global e-cigarette market was valued at $15.7 billion in 2018, with China producing over 95% of e-cigarettes worldwide. The UK currently has some of the most liberal e-cigarette regulations in Europe, contrasting with countries like Singapore and Thailand, which have completely banned these products.
As the debate continues, it's important to recognize that the long-term health effects of vaping are still not fully understood. While some studies suggest e-cigarettes may be less harmful than traditional cigarettes, they are not considered harmless. The World Health Organization has called for stricter regulation of e-cigarettes globally.
As the UK government moves forward with these plans, it remains committed to supporting the hospitality industry. Lucy Powell emphasized, "We support the hospitality industry. It's vital to our communities, our high street, our economy." She assured that any future legislation would be developed in full consultation with businesses.