I am pleased that the Government are listening to calls for more to be done about the rise in youth vaping and are introducing the new illicit vapes enforcement squad to work across the country to clamp down on those businesses who sell vapes to children.
I have been highlighting my concerns about the rise of teen vaping in Parliament through my Bill (Disposable E-Cigarettes (Prohibition of Sale)) and in my discussions with Ministers. In particular, I fear that disposable vape designs appeal to children through their bright colours, enticing names and sweet flavours. I have also been highlighting through my Bill that while reusable vapes remain an important means for those who want to quit, disposable vapes can have a harmful effect on children’s health and the environment.
I will continue to work with Ministers on how we can tackle the problems surrounding teen vaping. I will closely follow the outcomes of the government’s call for evidence on youth vaping to identify opportunities to reduce the number of children accessing and using vape products and explore where the government can go further.
