Do you agree with the new vaping rules? Take our poll and have your say

29 January 2024 , 11:33

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Do you think the new vaping rules go far enough? (Image: Getty)

The worrying vaping epidemic among our teenagers is growing larger by the day - but dramatic new measures aim to stop them becoming hooked in the first place.

From next year, disposable vapes will be completely banned, with ministers also getting new powers to restrict vape flavours, introduce plain packaging and change how vapes are displayed in shops so they don’t appeal to children.

The exploding popularity with the young has sparked fears a generation could end up with long-term addictions and lung damage. Dr Mike McKean, vice-president of policy for the Royal College of Paediatricians and Child Health, recently said if vaping's rapid growth continues its current trajectory, then almost all children will vape within five years.

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Disturbing statistics show one in five youngsters has experimented with vaping, despite it being illegal for those under 18. While e-cigarettes can help smokers quit, there are worries that the addictive habit is being taken up by those who have never had cigarettes. Research says half of vape users aged between 18 and 24 have no previous history of smoking.

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Health advocates have long cautioned against the allure of budget-friendly prices, with throwaway products costing as little as £3. There is also a problem with litter as five million disposable vapes are thrown away each week.

Health Secretary Victoria Atkins said: “The health advice is clear, vapes should only ever be used as a tool to quit smoking. But we are committed to doing more to protect our children from illicit underage vaping, and by banning disposable vapes we’re preventing children from becoming hooked for life.”

The ban on disposable vapes will extend to England, Wales, and Scotland. These changes will introduce powers to limit flavours specifically marketed at children. While a potential decision could restrict all flavours except tobacco, mint, menthol, and fruit, the final decision is yet to be made. Further regulations on packaging to reduce appeal among youngsters are also being considered.

The Government will also consult on rules on how vapes are displayed in shops, for example moving them out of sight of kids. New fines will be introduced for shops in England and Wales that sell vapes illegally to children. Ministers are still considering whether to introduce a new tax on vaping to make it less affordable for kids to take up the habit, although they are expected to wait to see the impact of the ban on disposables first.

What do you think? Do you agree with the new vaping rules? Take our poll above and expand on your thoughts in the comments below

Paul Speed