We are seeking the views of candidates in the upcoming 2024 elections on tobacco and vaping. Specifically, regarding the Tobacco and Vaping Bill which was under consideration at Westminster before the General Election was called.
You will be aware that the Bill would have made it an offence anywhere in the UK to sell tobacco products to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009. The current age-of-sale across the UK is 18-years.
The Bill would also have made further provisions to reduce youth vaping:
- The Bill would have created powers to make it an offence to sell non-nicotine vaping products to under-18s.
- The Bill would also have allowed the introduction of regulations restricting the retail packaging, and contents and flavouring of vaping and nicotine products.
- The Bill could have seen powers introduced to make it an offence to distribute free vaping products to under-18s.
- Finally, the Bill would have enabled new regulations restricting the display of vaping or nicotine products in retail outlets.
Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke strongly supported this Bill and are pleased to see that the Labour and Conservative parties are pledged to introduce a similar Bill in the new Parliament. The damage caused by tobacco to people, the health service, economy and communities in Northern Ireland is well known.
We would be keen to know your views, as a candidate in this election and the position of your party.
I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Yours Sincerely
Eugene Reid
Policy and Engagement Officer
Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke
