The government has brought forward a new Tobacco and Vapes Bill in Parliament, which includes a ban on anyone born after 2009 from purchasing cigarettes for life. This legislation also imposes strict regulations on other nicotine products like vapes and pouches. Mike Salem from the Consumer Choice Center expressed disappointment in the government’s lack of consideration for consumer voices, especially young people. The previous Conservative government initially introduced this legislation, but Labour has reintroduced a more stringent version that has not been well received by consumers.
Salem raised concerns about the potential increase in illegal activities and profits for the illicit market due to this prohibition. He referenced the rise in illicit cigarette sales in 2023, with 1 in 5 cigarettes being sold illegally in the UK. Salem highlighted the negative consequences of blanket bans on nicotine products, pointing to cases in the United States, South Africa, and Australia where illicit markets thrived, leading to criminal activities like gang warfare.
The Labour Party’s decision to implement this ban has been criticized for negatively impacting young people. Salem mentioned the Party’s other policies that have made it more challenging for young individuals, such as tightening the job market, increasing tuition fees, and now interfering with lifestyle choices. He emphasized the importance of listening to consumers who have found alternatives like vapes, heat-not-burn, and pouches beneficial in quitting smoking, rather than implementing a complete ban.
Salem urged the government to focus on enforcing existing laws that prohibit the sale of nicotine products to minors and cautioned against the potential negative public health outcomes of this Bill. He stressed the importance of considering the well-being of consumers and children who may be left vulnerable by this legislation. The Consumer Choice Center advocates for a more balanced approach that takes into account the diverse needs of smokers and provides support for those looking to quit.
