Overview

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to reduce smoking and vaping rates, particularly among young people, by introducing stricter regulations on the sale, distribution, advertising, and use of tobacco and vaping products. Key changes include raising the legal smoking age, banning snus, and introducing licensing schemes for tobacco retailers.

Description

Sale and Distribution

The bill introduces a range of measures to control the sale and distribution of tobacco and vaping products across the UK. This includes raising the minimum age for purchasing tobacco products to those born after 1 January 2009. It also bans the manufacture and sale of snus (a smokeless tobacco product) and prohibits the sale of unpackaged cigarettes. Vending machines dispensing tobacco or vaping products will also be banned. The bill establishes licensing schemes for tobacco retailers in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, requiring them to obtain a license to sell these products.

Product and Information Requirements

The bill empowers the Secretary of State to regulate the production, importation, and sale of tobacco and vaping products. This includes the ability to regulate aspects such as retail packaging, product markings, flavourings, and the substances released from these products. A register of tobacco, vape, and other products will be established.

Advertising and Sponsorship

The bill aims to control the advertising and sponsorship of tobacco and vaping products, prohibiting or restricting various forms of promotion, including brandsharing. The bill also contains provisions for regulating advertising on the internet, and in audiovisual services and radio broadcasting.

Smoke-free and Vape-free Places

The bill expands smoke-free places in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and introduces vape-free places and heated tobacco-free places to further reduce exposure to these products.

Government Spending

The bill's financial implications are not explicitly stated in the provided text. However, the introduction of licensing schemes and enforcement mechanisms will likely involve some government spending on administration and enforcement, potentially offset by increased revenue from licensing fees and penalties.

Groups Affected

• Young People (born after 1 January 2009): Face a ban on purchasing tobacco products.
• Tobacco Retailers: Required to obtain licenses in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland and face penalties for non-compliance.
• Vaping Product Retailers: Subject to new age verification and sales restrictions.
• Snus Manufacturers and Retailers: Face a complete ban on manufacturing and selling snus.
• Advertising and Marketing Companies: Subject to stricter regulations on advertising tobacco and vaping products.
• Businesses and Organizations: Subject to regulations regarding smoke-free, vape-free, and heated tobacco-free places.
• Enforcement Authorities (Local Councils and Weights and Measures Authorities): Assume increased responsibilities for enforcement.

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