Overview

This bill aims to tighten regulations surrounding the sale and distribution of tobacco and vaping products across the UK. Key changes include raising the legal smoking age, restricting vaping product sales to minors, and introducing stricter packaging and display requirements.

Description

Raising the Smoking Age

The bill raises the legal age for purchasing tobacco products to 18 for anyone born on or after 1 January 2009.

Vaping Regulations

The sale of vaping products to under-18s will be prohibited. The bill also grants powers to extend these restrictions to nicotine products and to regulate their display, including limitations on advertising and pricing.

Packaging and Display

The bill allows for regulations to be set regarding the retail packaging of tobacco and vaping products, including restrictions on flavorings, branding, and size. Display requirements for these products in retail settings will also be controlled.

Enforcement

Local weights and measures authorities will be primarily responsible for enforcement, with provisions allowing the relevant national authorities (the Secretary of State, Welsh Ministers, Scottish Ministers, and the Department of Health in Northern Ireland) to take over enforcement in specific cases. Fixed penalty notices will be introduced for certain offences.

Restricted Premises and Sale Orders

Persistent offenders risk restricted premises orders, which prohibit sales of regulated products at specific locations, and restricted sale orders, which ban individuals from selling or managing the sale of such products.

Other Provisions

The bill includes provisions to repeal outdated legislation, make consequential amendments to existing laws, and introduces notification requirements for vaping and nicotine products.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. However, costs are anticipated for enforcement, development of regulations, and potential support for businesses affected by the changes. Savings might arise from reduced healthcare costs associated with smoking and vaping-related illnesses in the long term.

Groups Affected

• Retailers: Face new restrictions on sales, display, and packaging, potentially incurring costs in adapting their practices and potentially facing penalties for non-compliance.
• Young people: The smoking age increase and vaping restrictions will directly affect those born after 1 January 2009.
• Vaping industry: Will face new regulations regarding product composition, packaging, and sales to minors.
• Local authorities: Will be responsible for enforcement and may require additional resources.
• Public health: The bill aims to improve public health outcomes by reducing tobacco and vaping-related harms.

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