Welcome Plans to Ban Disposable Straws by Staffordshire Trading Standards

The head of the Staffordshire County Trading Standards Bureau recently welcomed the plan to ban the sale of disposable straws.

These recommendations are part of the government's plan to crack down on teenage vape use. The new legislation being introduced will restrict the sale of flavors targeted specifically at children and ensure manufacturers produce packaging that is more plain and visually unappealing.

In addition, the government can also change the way tobacco products are displayed in stores, placing them in areas not visible to young people and away from products like candy.

Victoria Wilson, a cabinet member of the Staffordshire County Council responsible for trade standards, stated: "There is no doubt that disposable straws are a major factor leading to the alarming increase in the number of teenagers vaping, so banning disposable e-cigarettes is very welcome."

According to new regulations, shops in England and Wales selling e-cigarettes to children will face new fines. Trading standards officials will be authorized to take "on the spot" action to address the issue of underage tobacco and e-cigarette sales.

Congressman Wilson stated, "Smoking e-cigarettes is now considered an important tool for quitting smoking. However, we are still concerned about the increasing number of young people smoking e-cigarettes. Our officials have found that the number of illegally sold e-cigarettes has significantly increased, especially with illegal e-cigarettes seemingly being marketed towards children. More and more evidence also suggests that e-cigarettes pose an environmental issue and potential fire hazard. Banning disposable e-cigarettes would greatly benefit Stafford County, not only safeguarding children's health but also protecting the environment."