The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) has welcomed the
introduction of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill which will introduce
reforms to phase out smoking entirely.
In response to the introduction of the
Bill, Professor Sanjay Agrawal, RCP special adviser
on tobacco, said:
“The introduction of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill is a monumental
step forward in protecting public health - paving the way to
eradicate tobacco use for good and curbing the rising levels of
youth vaping.
“While e-cigarettes remain an effective tool for adults trying to
quit smoking, restricting the appeal and availability of vapes is
welcome to protect young people and never smokers.
“We also welcome that the Bill will introduce a licensing scheme
for retailers to sell tobacco, vape, and nicotine products in
England, Wales, and Northern Ireland—a measure we called for
earlier this year in our report on E-cigarettes and Harm
Reduction. Licensing will provide critical oversight to
help prevent illegal sales, ensuring that these products are sold
responsibly and are not easily accessible to young people.
“While we need to see the detail, we support the intention of
extending the outdoor smoking ban to playgrounds, school grounds,
and hospitals to make these spaces safer for children, patients,
and the wider public - many of whom live with 'invisible'
vulnerabilities such as asthma, heart disease, or are
pregnant - from the dangers of second-hand smoke.
“We strongly welcome the government's bold commitment to
safeguarding the health of future generations and urge MPs to
support this critical legislation, which has the potential to
save lives, reduce healthcare demands, and create healthier
environments for all.”
