Calls for politicians to consider options
VAPING industry and convenience channel bosses are calling for a measured approach over planned legislation outlined in the King’s Speech and by politicians at Holyrood.
The UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) welcomed the reintroduction of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill by the new Labour Government but said industry and consumer voices must be heard by MPs.
Director general John Dunne said: “We hope that Health Secretary Wes Streeting will grasp the opportunity this bill presents to improve the health outcomes for millions of smokers by allowing vaping to fulfil its untapped potential to help adult smokers quit.”
He warned a ban on all flavoured vapes and hiding vapes from view would drive former smokers back to cigarettes and open the floodgates for black market dealers who would also target young people.
UKVIA wants to see a retail and distributor licensing scheme, powers to outlaw packaging attractive to children and a legal requirement for ministers to consult with stakeholders prior to any new regulations.
The Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF), meanwhile, has written to MSPs urging against too many restrictions on flavoured vapes, arguing this will be detrimental to the drive to make Scotland smoke free.
The SGF is also calling for retailers to still be allowed to display vape products so adult smokers can see the less harmful alternatives.
Chief exec Pete Cheema said the SGF had already called for measures to ensure products were not attractive to children but said: “Our members in convenience stores across the country tell us their customers say the range of flavours – and finding one that works for them – has been the key factor in stopping them smoking.
“If those flavours are not there, it will reduce choice and potentially make it more difficult for smokers to quit. That risks setting our public health agenda back and increasing the strain on our NHS.”
The UK bill also includes plans for a generational tobacco ban. The Tobacco Manufacturers’ Association fears this will lead to independent retailers facing even more anti-social behaviour.
