Government Cracks Down on Illegal Vaping with £10 Million Investment
£10 Million to Tackle Underage Vaping
The UK government has announced a £10 million investment to tackle the growing issue of vaping in communities. The funding will support Trading Standards, helping to enforce laws that stop the sale of illegal tobacco and vapes—particularly to underage users.
80 Junior Police Officers to Be Hired
The funds will also be used to hire 80 junior police officers, who will work with local Trading Standards teams and police to target crime groups selling illegal vape products.
Support for the Tobacco and Vapes Bill
The move aligns with the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, currently in the report stage in the House of Commons. The bill includes a plan to ban tobacco sales to anyone born on or after January 1, 2009.
Protecting Children from Addiction
Ashley Dalton, Minister for Public Health and Prevention, said: “Buying illegal tobacco and vapes may save you a few pennies, but they can be dangerous and are often tied to organised crime.”
She stressed that the bill aims to “set our kids free from a life of addiction”, as the government moves toward a smoke-free future.
Stronger Enforcement and Support for Businesses
John Herriman, CEO of the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI), welcomed the funding. He said the investment will:
- Help businesses comply with regulations
- Support public health efforts
- Crack down on lawbreakers who harm communities
“This investment gives us the tools we need to keep customers safe and promote a fair market,” Herriman said.
Positive Regional Trends in Smoking Reduction
A recent study showed that smoking rates are falling faster in the North of England than in other regions, reducing the national smoking disparity.
However, concerns remain. A February study found that people in the poorest UK areas face 60% higher cancer death rates than those in wealthier regions.
Investigating Long-Term Effects of Vaping on Youth
The government also plans to study the long-term health effects of vaping on children and teenagers, recognising growing concerns over rising youth vaping rates.
This multi-pronged approach aims to protect future generations and build a healthier, smoke-free Britain.
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