Scottish Green Party Calls for Strong E-Cigarette Licensing System

According to a report in the Inverness Courier on January 1st, Gillian Mackay, the health spokesperson for the Scottish Green Party, has called for the government to introduce a "robust" e-cigarette licensing system as part of regulating the industry.

The lawmaker is urging the government to introduce a plan that would give local councils the authority to approve or reject license applications for the sale of e-cigarette products in certain areas. The UK government is already considering a bill that, if passed, would restrict flavored e-cigarette options and review e-cigarette packaging to reduce their appeal to children and young people.

The bill also includes a complete ban on e-cigarette advertising and sponsorship, including displays that children and young people can see, in order to align with current tobacco restrictions.

Gillian McKai stated that local authorities should have the power to refuse issuing licenses and to take appropriate punitive measures against retailers who violate regulations, including revoking their licenses.

Dr. McKay emphasized the need for a robust licensing system in Scotland to protect public health, placing this above the interests of the tobacco and e-cigarette industries. She also stated that the upcoming disposable e-cigarette ban would be a significant milestone for public health and communities. By linking the licensing system with providing collection points and services, if registration fees are set to not only cover program management costs but also raise significant funds to support community services, it could be a valuable move for the city council.

Public Health Minister Jenni Minto stated that Scotland is the only country in the UK that requires retailers to register to sell tobacco and e-cigarettes. If the Tobacco and E-cigarette Bill is passed, this would mean that registration would be expanded to cover nicotine and herbal smoking products.