Legislation will introduce an age restriction on vape sales

Wed, 09 Nov 2022

Legislation to prohibit sales of vaping products and e-cigarettes to under 18s, and introduce regulatory controls including point of sale controls, is to be introduced by Easter 2023.

A dedicated Public Health Vaping Regulation Bill led by Public Health and Cabinet Office is being drafted, with a commitment given by Minister Lord-Brennan in the House of Keys to introduce the legislation in the coming months, with a draft bill for consultation expected before Christmas.

Over recent months there has been reports of a significant increase in the use of vapes and in particular disposable vapes by young people.

These reports come from a wide range of sources, including schools. Anecdotal evidence from the Constabulary also indicates an increase in the number of retail thefts of vaping products.

The EU and UK introduced regulatory controls for nicotine containing products in 2016, and there is strong medical advice from across the world on the dangers of smoking and vaping.

Public Health strongly advises all those under 18 years of age not to vape. The highly addictive nicotine, and other chemicals, found in vapes may pose a health risk to still developing bodes, including the potential for underdeveloped lungs or other respiratory issues.

 

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