If passed, the bill will progress to the next parliamentary stage. It will help achieve one of the three key shifts in the government’s ‘10 Year Health Plan’, to move from sickness to prevention.
The bill includes plans to clamp down on youth vaping with many of the measures specifically aimed at protecting children.
Subject to consultation, the sale of vape flavours that overtly appeal to children, such as bubble gum, gummy bears and cotton candy, could be banned, alongside restrictions on vape packaging that is designed to appeal to young people.
Wes Streeting, the health and social care secretary, said, “The number of children vaping is growing at an alarming rate and without urgent intervention, we’re going to have a generation of children with long-term addiction.
“It is unacceptable that these harmful products are being deliberately targeted at children with brightly coloured packaging and flavours like ‘gummy bear’ and ‘rainbow burst’.
“The Tobacco and Vapes Bill provides the protection that children and young people need to avoid a life imprisoned by addiction. That’s why it’s so incredibly important it is voted through.”
The bill will bring in a total ban on vape advertising and sponsorship, including displays that will likely be seen by children and young people, such as on buses, in cinemas, and shop windows. This would be in line with current tobacco restrictions.
All vaping and nicotine products will be banned from being sold to under 18s, closing loopholes on non-nicotine vapes and nicotine pouches. Vapes would also be banned in vending machines, where children can easily access them.
To support current smokers to quit smoking, the government will provide £70m for stop smoking services. This is in addition to all hospitals integrating ‘opt-out’ smoking cessation interventions into routine care, making every clinical consultation count.
Stephen Powis, NHS national medical director, said, “Vaping among young people is a significant and growing concern and we wholeheartedly welcome the government’s commitment to tackle this as part of the measures outlined in this bill.
“Smoking also remains the leading cause of preventable deaths and has a huge impact on the NHS, costing billions every year and we look forward to working with the government and partners to ensure the next generation grow up smoke and vape free.”
The government has pledged an additional £10m for Trading Standards to crack down on illicit trade. This follows data from National Trading Standards (NTS) that show over 1m illicit vapes were seized inland by Trading Standards in 2023 to 2024, a 59 per cent increase compared to the previous year.
The bill will also include powers to introduce a licensing scheme for retailers to sell tobacco, vape and nicotine products in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. It will introduce on-the-spot fines of £200 to retailers who are found to be selling these products to underage people.
Ian Walker, executive director of policy at Cancer Research UK, said, “Tobacco still causes around 160 cancer cases every day in the UK. But with strong political will and bold action, these staggering numbers can be turned around.
“By voting in favour of this historic legislation, MPs have the power to help save lives and make the UK a world leader in tobacco control. Raising the age of sale of tobacco products and funding cessation support will save people from a deadly and costly addiction. I urge politicians to prioritise the health of the nation and help end cancers caused by smoking for good.”