Prime minister, Rishi Sunak, has today outlined plans to ban the sale of disposable vapes to crack down on youth vaping, protect children’s health and progress plans to create the first smokefree generation.
The government says the number of children using vapes has tripled in the last three years, including a jump in younger children with 9% of 11-15-year-olds now vaping.
This comes alongside figures suggesting the proportion of 11-17-year-olds who use disposable vapes has increased ninefold in the past two years.
To curb this, the government will restrict vape flavours which target children, ensure packaging is less visually appealing, and move vapes away from products that already appeal to children and out of their sight.
Rishi Sunak said: “Alongside our commitment to stop children who turn 15 this year or younger from ever legally being sold cigarettes, these changes will leave a lasting legacy by protecting our children’s health for the long term.”
Shops in England and Wales who sell vapes to children will be subject to financial penalties – Trading Standards officials will have the power to issue on the spot fines. This is on top of the max £2,500 fine that local authorities can already impose.
New annual funding of £30m will empower organisations like Border Force, HM Revenue and Customs, and Trading Standards to enforce these measures.
While the long-term health implications of vaping are largely unknown, the nicotine within them is highly addictive. Vaping should only be used as a way of quitting smoking and never done by children, according to the government.
The measures come in response to the government consultation on smoking and vaping, which closed in early December 2023.
The government says the concept of a disposable vape ban garnered widespread support, with 70% of healthcare professionals, parents and teachers supportive of the action.
“Smoking is still the single largest preventable cause of death in England,” said health secretary, Victoria Atkins. “Almost every minute of every day someone is admitted to hospital with a smoking-related disease. And its costs society £17bn each year – putting a huge burden on our NHS.”
She continued: “That’s why we are driving the way forward through our smokefree generation plan, which will prevent our children from starting this dangerous habit.”
The government’s response to its ‘smokefree generation’ consultation lays plan for legislation that will be introduced in parliament shortly.
This builds on action taken during autumn 2023 that saw the government announce its intention to essentially ban smoking for those aged 14 and younger.
“Bold action was always needed…” – Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health
Dr Mike McKean, vice president of policy at the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH), said: “We’re delighted that the Westminster Government has heard our calls and is rightly prioritising the health and well-being of our children and the planet.
“Bold action was always needed to curb youth vaping and banning disposables is a meaningful step in the right direction. I’m also extremely pleased to see further much needed restrictions on flavours, packaging, and marketing of vapes, which RCPCH has repeatedly called for.”
The government also highlights the environmental benefits of banning disposable vapes, with five million thrown away each year, a jump from 1.3 million last year. This is the equivalent to the lithium batteries in 5,000 electric vehicles.
Image credit: iStock
