We have welcomed the introduction of the UK-wide vaping levy today (October 1st). Measures which increase the price of vaping products could play an important role in discouraging children and young people from taking up vaping.
We believe vaping should not become a normal part of growing up and we welcome action designed to reduce the appeal and accessibility of vaping products among young people.
The new levy provides an important opportunity to help address the affordability of vaping products. Price can influence purchasing decisions, particularly among younger consumers, and we believe taxation should form part of a wider package of measures aimed at preventing children and young people from starting to vape.
Neil Johnston, NICHS spokesperson, said; “NICHS welcomes the introduction of the UK-wide vaping levy. We are particularly pleased to see action being taken which has the potential to make vaping less affordable and therefore less attractive to children and young people.”
“We do not want to see a new generation developing a dependence on nicotine. Vaping products should never be marketed, packaged or priced in ways which encourage their use by children.”
“Increasing the price of vaping products can be a useful deterrent, but taxation cannot work in isolation. We need a comprehensive approach which tackles the factors making vaping attractive and accessible to young people, backed by effective enforcement.”
“This should include strong restrictions on marketing and promotion, appropriate controls on flavours and packaging which appeal to children, and action to prevent underage sales.”
“It is also important that young people receive clear, evidence-based information about vaping and nicotine so they can make informed decisions about their health.”
While vaping can have a different role for adults who smoke and are seeking to quit, preventing uptake among children, young people and people who have never smoked must remain a public health priority.
We are calling for the impact of the levy to be closely monitored, including levels of vaping among children and young people and whether changes in price affect patterns of use.
Neil Johnston added; “The test of this policy will be whether it contributes to fewer young people starting to vape. We would encourage government to monitor its impact closely and be prepared to take further action where necessary.”
“Our message to young people is straightforward: if you do not smoke, do not start vaping.”
