UK Government Rejects Proposed Regulations To Stop Youth Vaping

VPZ, the UK’s largest vape specialist retailer, is extremely disappointed that the Government’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill Committee has rejected regulatory proposals which would prevent the sale and manufacturing of “Big Puff” disposables that are already threatening the environment and youth uptake.

We are urging the Government to reconsider as the current system is being abused by the MHRA and foreign importers. Current regulations explicitly limit the capacity of a refillable e-cig tank to a maximum of 2 ml.

Despite this, millions of disposables with larger capacities than 2 ml are entering the UK every week. Implementing the suggested changes by Dr Caroline Johnson MP, would obliterate this grey area, protect the environment and cease the alarming youth vaping uptake across the country.

During a discussion of amendments, the proposal was debated and rejected following a vote.

By utilising an external plug-in tank of 10 ml or more, these super-sized disposables become a 12 ml product, which is 6 times more than the allowed vaping liquid in a disposable device, soon to be banned in June.

VPZ is demanding clarity from the UK Government as to why Amendment NC9 has been rejected and why ministers aren’t committed to doing everything in their power to stop youth vaping by June 2025.

Greig Fowler, Director of VPZ – The Vaping Specialist, said:

“As a responsible vape retailer, completely against youth uptake and unnecessary environmental waste, let alone boosting the black market - this is completely disheartening. It had the potential to make a huge difference.

“Yet again, we see the Government entangled in interparty mudslinging and point scoring, which put the British public at risk. When will wee see a Government act in the interests of the British people?

“Despite having positive engagements with over 50 MPs now, who agree of these proposals it fails to filter through to the top of the table. It is time to act as one and decide what is best for the future generations and put egos aside.”