Disposable vapes could be banned under government plans

It’s hoped this will reduce the number of young people vaping

The government is considering banning disposable vapes under new plans.

Ministers are currently putting together measures with the aim of curbing the sales of vapes and other nicotine products to children. This would likely included restrictions on things like branding, flavouring and packaging.

But the Telegraph reports that Labour could go even further and introduce a blanket ban on single-use disposable vapes. These often feature a variety of sweet flavours and have colourful packaging, which many believe makes them an attractive product to children.

A government source told the publication: “Ministers are currently reviewing options on whether we want to progress a ban on disposable vapes.”

Former prime minister Rishi Sunak had drawn up similar plans for a ban on disposable vapes. During his time in opposition, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer had voiced his support for plans to  curb the rising number of young people taking up vaping.

An estimated 7.2 per cent of those aged 11-17 vape regularly, a significant rise from 2020 when this figure stood at 4.1 per cent for the same age group.

Meanwhile, 18 per cent of this age group admit to having tried vaping at least once.

Speaking on Sunday, Lucy Powell, the Leader of the House of Commons, vowed that Labour would “tackle the scourge of vaping.”

Whilst medical bodies widely agree that vaping is not as bad for you as smoking cigarettes – and play an important role in helping people give up smoking – there are growing concerns over the health impacts vaping can have, particularly amongst young people.

The government has already announced a number of plans surrounding tobacco products as part of its tobacco and vapes bill. This includes a progressive smoking ban that would mean any children born in 2009 or onwards will never be able to legally buy a cigarette.

Plans have also been revealed to ban smoking in beer gardens, nightclubs and football stadiums.