The UK government is set to ban disposable vapes and implement measures to discourage youth vaping, responding to a rise in vaping among children.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced the plan, aiming to make vaping less appealing to youngsters by restricting sweet flavours, introducing plain packaging, and making displays less visible in stores.
These changes are expected to take effect in late 2024 or early 2025. The move is part of a broader response to a public consultation on smoking and vaping, resulting in some of the world’s toughest anti-smoking measures, including a ban on selling tobacco to those born after January 1, 2009.
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health supported the announcement, emphasizing the need for bold action to curb youth vaping.
Concerns over the unknown long-term health impact on young people and the environmental impact of disposable vapes were cited.
Despite opposition from some quarters, Sunak aims to implement the ban using existing environmental protection laws, extending it to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland through devolved legislation.
The government’s comprehensive approach seeks to address the health risks and environmental concerns associated with youth vaping.
#MaltaDaily