UK Government Considering Ban on Disposable E-Cigarettes to Reduce Youth Usage

Sep.02.2024

The UK government is considering banning disposable e-cigarettes to reduce youth usage, with potential restrictions on brands, flavors, and packaging.

According to a report by JOE on September 2nd, the British government is considering banning disposable e-cigarettes. The new plan aims to reduce the number of young people using e-cigarettes.

To curb the purchase of e-cigarettes and other nicotine-containing products by young people, the UK government is currently developing a series of measures that may include restrictions on brands, flavors, and packaging. Reports suggest that the Labour Party may further propose a complete ban on disposable e-cigarettes. Many believe that these disposable e-cigarettes often come in various sweet flavors and colorful packaging, making them appealing to teenagers.

According to data, approximately 7.2% of teenagers aged 11 to 17 regularly use e-cigarettes, a significant increase from 4.1% in 2020. Additionally, around 18% of teenagers in this age group admit to having tried an e-cigarette at least once.

Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also previously introduced a similar plan to ban disposable e-cigarettes. During his tenure in the opposition party, new UK Labour Party Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed support for measures to curb young people from using e-cigarettes.

Lucy Powell, leader of the Labour Party in the House of Commons, stated on September 1st that the party vows to "address the issue of the spread of e-cigarettes." Despite medical institutions generally recognizing that e-cigarettes are less harmful to health than traditional cigarettes and play a significant role in helping people quit smoking, public concerns about the impact of e-cigarettes on physical health are increasing, especially among young people.

The UK government has recently announced a series of new plans regarding tobacco products as part of the Tobacco and E-Cigarette Act. This includes progressive smoking bans, which will prohibit individuals born in 2009 and later from ever legally purchasing cigarettes. Additionally, the government is planning to ban smoking in beer gardens, nightclubs, and football stadiums.

References:

[1] Disposable vapes could be banned under government plans

Also Read:

[1] Proposed E-cigarette Tax in UK: Public Health vs Smoking

[2] UK Prime Minister Supports Ban on Outdoor Smoking

[3] United Wholesale Scotland Launches New E-cigarette Delivery Service

[4] The Growing Problem of Disposable E-Cigarette Pollution in UK Rivers

[5] Illegal Tobacco and E-Cigarettes Seized in Skagit Mini Market

#Europe #Legislation #United Kingdom #Disposable e-cigarettes #Regulation

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