Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke welcomed the introduction of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, in Parliament on Tuesday 5 November 2024.
Fidelma Carter, speaking on behalf of the charity commented:
“This is a radical bill that includes measures to create a smoke-free generation, phasing out the sale of tobacco products across the UK to anyone aged 15 or younger this year. NICHS believes this is the right course of action, not least because it will help protect young people in particular from the known risks posed by tobacco.
“We think there are many great measures in this Bill that will help tackle the scourge of tobacco and which recognise the increasing concerns about vaping. NICHS has been to the fore in calling for vaping retailers to have to register with their local council in the way that tobacco retailers do. We think licensing retailers will greatly assist the councils enforce the laws around vaping and better protect young people.”
The bill will include powers to introduce a licensing scheme and the Northern Ireland Assembly will be asked to pass a Legislative Consent Motion. NICHS will continue to liaise with Assembly Members on this – we believe there is strong cross party support for this measure.
The legislation also refers to introducing on the spot fines across the UK of £200 for retailers found to be selling these products to people underage. We believe that this is too low a level of fine as rogue retailers may not be deterred by this amount given the potential profits from continuing to break the law. We will be lobbying MPs at Westminster to urge this to be amended.
The Bill also contains a ban on vape advertising and sponsorship, as well as powers to restrict the flavours, display and packaging of all types of vapes, as well as other nicotine products..
Disposable vapes are also due to be banned in 2025 under legislation being brought forward in Northern Ireland by the Andrew Muir MLA, the Environment Minister.
