Independent retailers have warned that banning single-use vapes in the UK would not help people quit smoking and would instead encourage an illegal market.
Muntazir Dipoti, national president of the Federation of Independent Retailers (Fed), said: “While we agree that action is needed to prevent children and young people being attracted to vapes, we do not believe that banning single-use vapes is the answer to the problem.” Independent Retailers Warn He said that banning disposable vapes in the UK would not only not help people quit smoking, but would instead encourage the illegal market.
Muntazir Dipoti, national president of the Federation of Independent Retailers (FED), said: “While we agree that action is needed to prevent children and young people being attracted to vapes, we do not believe that banning single-use vapes is the answer to the problem.”
The Government launched a consultation on Vape and cigarettes in October 2023, aiming to create a smoke-free generation and address the problem of young people smoking Vape. In response, the government announced a ban on disposable vapes on January 29.
Mr Dipoti warned: “An outright ban will only lead young people to unorthodox and illegal sources that do not comply with tobacco and vape laws, and who hawk products that may contain dangerous and illegal toxic chemicals.”
“Disposable vapes are generally more affordable, so there is a greater incentive for adult smokers to switch to vaping.”
To combat vaping among young people, the government needs to provide more financial resources for educational activities, as well as more law enforcement activities, especially at the borders to prevent counterfeit products from entering the market, Dipoti continued.
In the meantime, introducing a disposal scheme – similar to the planned deposit return scheme for single-use drinks containers – would better address the government’s concerns about the environmental impact of these products.
“Vape retailers have a responsibility to provide recycling options, but the government should consider providing more ways to safely recycle single-use vapes,” Mr Dipoti explained.
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