In a bid to curb the alarming rise in youth vaping, the UK government is set to introduce a two-pronged approach: banning disposable e-cigarettes and gradually raising the legal smoking age.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced the plan on Monday, highlighting the concerning trend of disposable vapes fuelling nicotine addiction among teenagers. "We must act before it becomes endemic," Sunak declared, emphasizing the need for bold action.
The proposed legislation will outlaw disposable vapes, widely attributed to the surge in youth vaping due to their accessibility and attractive flavors. Additionally, new powers will restrict the variety of vape flavours, mandate plain packaging for e-cigarettes, and regulate their in-store display.
To further deter illegal cigarette sales to minors, the government plans to introduce fines for retailers in England and Wales. This move complements Sunak's ambitious vision for a smoke-free future, as outlined in his previous proposal.
The plan aims to effectively raise the smoking age by one year annually, eventually making it illegal for anyone born after January 1st, 2009, to purchase tobacco products. This progressive approach will ultimately create a generation free from the dangers of smoking.
The proposed legislation has garnered positive responses from health experts, with Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty praising its potential for "a major public health impact across many future generations." Overall, the UK's two-pronged approach signifies a determined effort to tackle the growing concern of youth nicotine addiction through both preventative and punitive measures.
