Both Houses of Parliament have agreed on the text of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which now waits for the final stage of Royal Assent when it becomes law.
The Bill will see the introduction of a tobacco sales ban, which is due to come into force on 1 January 2027, making it illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone born after 2008.
The sale of nicotine pouches, which are not currently age restricted, will be made illegal to under-18s.
The Bill will also introduce powers to implement a UK‑wide ban on the advertising and promotion of vapes, nicotine pouches, heated tobacco and herbal smoking products. What’s more, ministers will also have new powers to regulate vape flavours, packaging and shop display.
In addition, the Bill includes powers to introduce a licensing scheme for retailers to sell tobacco, vape and nicotine products in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Registration in Scotland will be extended to include additional goods, such as non-cigarette nicotine and herbal products.
Lord Naseby was not in support of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill. He said: “It upsets a great many people in that industry that the Government have not listened to the strong representations of the retailers and those who have knowledge of the industry … What we really need is a proper understanding of how we educate people not to take up smoking.”
House of Lords member Baroness Merron said: “I assure the noble Lord … that we have worked closely with retailers and will continue to do so.
“This is a landmark Bill that will create a smoke-free generation, and it will be the biggest public health intervention in a generation.”
A date for Royal Assent is yet to be scheduled.
- The Association of Convenience Stores has revealed the Decline09 campaign to help retailers, colleagues and consumers with incoming rules on age verification for tobacco products.
