While everyone may be talking about the Chancellor's Spring Statement earlier today, our misson at 'The Bench Report' is to highlight other debates and committees that may go unheralded, but are extremely important. Today we look at the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, a landmark piece of legislation aiming to create a smokefree generation in the UK.

We unpack the key clauses and amendments discussed in Parliament, revealing the complexities and controversies surrounding this significant public health intervention. From the generational smoking ban preventing tobacco sales to those born after 2009, to the stricter regulations on vaping products aimed at curbing youth uptake, we explore the arguments for and against these measures.

We examine the proposed changes to age verification for tobacco and vape sales, including the potential for digital ID. Discover the contentious discussions on advertising bans for vapes and nicotine products, and the potential exemptions for specialist vape shops. We also analyse the debates around extending smokefree areas and the concerns raised about a potential rise in the illegal tobacco and vape market. Plus, we touch upon discussions regarding contaminated e-liquids and a potential ban on cigarette filters.

Source: Hansard - Tobacco and Vapes Bill

Key Takeaways:

• The Bill proposes a generational ban on tobacco sales.
• New measures aim to strengthen age verification for tobacco and vaping products, potentially including digital methods.
• There are debates around a total ban on vape advertising with potential exemptions for specialist retailers.
• The Bill considers extending smokefree areas to protect against second-hand smoke.
• Concerns exist about a potential increase in the illegal trade of tobacco and vapes.
• Discussions included the need for reviews on contaminated e-liquids.
• A proposal was made to ban cigarette filters for environmental reasons.
• The government emphasises the aim to create a smokefree generation and reduce youth vaping.
• Vaping is acknowledged as a potential smoking cessation

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No outside chatter: source material only taken from Hansard and the Parliament UK website.

Contains Parliamentary information repurposed under the Open Parliament Licence v3.0.