LGA statement on PM smoking and vaping announcements

Responding to the Prime Minister’s announcement on smoking and vaping, Cllr David Fothergill, Chairman of the LGA’s Community Wellbeing Board said: “We are pleased that the Government has listened to councils and is bringing forward measures to restrict the availability of vapes to children.

“However, disposable vapes are an inherently unsustainable products, meaning an outright ban remains the most effective solution to this problem.”

“Single use vapes blight our streets as litter, are a hazard in our bin lorries, and are expensive and difficult to deal with in our recycling centres. Their colours, flavours and advertising are appealing to children and are a risk to the health of young people.”

“Smoking is the single largest cause of preventable death worldwide and councils stand ready to help the Government achieve its ambition of eliminating smoking in England by 2030.

“It is important that clarity is provided on how restrictions on the age of sale can be enforced and councils get the funding they need to successfully implement this policy.

“There should also be sufficient lead-in time, and guidance provided ahead of the legislation coming into force so that councils, retailers and others understand their new obligations and can prepare accordingly.”