Read articles from United Kingdom

October 15, 2025 by filtermag.org

The UK government seeks expert input on achieving smoke-free status by 2030, with a focus on the Tobacco and Vapes Bill limiting smoking and imposing regulations on retailers. Concerns arise over potential impact on harm reduction access and the balance between youth protection and vape usability. Critics question if evidence contradicts government intentions while a licensing scheme aims to prevent rogue retailers. Debate surrounds potential effects on responsible retailers and concerns that limitation of vape shops could harm public health. Calls for evidence also raise worries about the government's stance on harm reduction. The "Pride in Place" program allows communities to restrict vape shops, sparking concerns over potential stigma.

October 10, 2025 by bbc.com

BAT's UK and Ireland boss advocates for a "very strict" marketing framework to encourage smokers to switch to vapes. While the UK opposes further vape marketing, BAT sees advertising as essential for informing smokers about alternatives. The company's focus on closed vaping systems aims to reduce smoking rates. Despite concerns over vaping's long-term effects, it's considered less harmful than smoking. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to restrict advertising and underage sales to achieve a smoke-free generation. BAT opposes the bill's restrictions and argues for looser advertising rules and more penalties for underage sales. Ertonguc believes these measures will have a bigger impact on reducing smoking rates than the government's current legislation.

October 10, 2025 by independent.co.uk

The Government plans to introduce licensing for shops selling vapes and tobacco to combat rogue traders targeting children. The licensing aims to shut down illicit operators and support legitimate retailers, with fines for rule breakers. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill will also ban advertising, regulate flavors, and restrict where products are displayed. The move aims to protect children and curb youth vaping. Various organizations, including ASH and IBVTA, support evidence-based regulations. Local councils seek a balanced licensing system to safeguard youth without burdening responsible retailers.

October 01, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

New government licensing rules could restrict vape access for smokers, worrying retailers about increased smoking rates and black market activity. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill proposes licensing for all tobacco and vape sellers by January 2027, without "grandfathering" existing sellers. Concerns arise over the impact on convenience stores and potential restrictions near schools. The UK Vaping Industry Association criticizes categorizing vape shops alongside unwanted businesses, emphasizing vaping's role in smoking cessation and public health. Licensing could target rogue traders and fund enforcement efforts, supporting responsible retailers and public health goals.

September 26, 2025 by thecritic.co.uk

The spread of misinformation about vaping risks is described as a major public health disaster, fueled by myths like “popcorn lung,” the EVALI scare, and the misconception that nicotine causes cancer. Instead of correcting false beliefs, public health figures are accused of reinforcing them. The UK government’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which allows vapes to be regulated like cigarettes, is seen as worsening the problem by suggesting their risks are similar. Critics argue that some public health academics and activists undermine vaping despite acknowledging its benefits.

September 25, 2025 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

UKVIA Director General John Dunne warned that putting vapes in plain, cigarette-style packaging could drive ex-smokers back to cigarettes. He argued that while studies claim plain packaging reduces youth appeal, it risks reinforcing myths that vaping is as harmful as smoking. Dunne stressed that vaping is far less risky and the most effective way to quit smoking. He also pointed to evidence from the UK, Canada, and the US showing plain packaging reduces adult appeal and can increase smoking rates. Citing that 14% of former smokers have already returned to cigarettes after the disposable vape ban, he cautioned against further restrictive laws.

September 24, 2025 by dorsetecho.co.uk

Varenicline and cytisine, free on prescription, aid in quitting smoking by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Approved by the MHRA, they enhance the success of quitting and are available in Dorset and Bournemouth, supporting the goal of a smokefree generation by 2030. Personalized consultations with pharmacists and regular check-ins provide valuable support. Councillors highlight the benefits of these medicines, especially for those who struggled to quit before, emphasizing the importance of taking the first step towards a smoke-free life. Local stop smoking services now offer a wider range of tools, increasing the chances of success in quitting smoking.

September 23, 2025 by spiked-online.com

The UK government plans to ban vaping in public places, claiming health risks without scientific evidence. Public Health England emphasized the negligible harm of secondhand vaping in 2015 and 2018. Recent research also supports this, finding minimal health risks for bystanders. The proposed ban lacks evidence of significant risks, potentially hindering smokers from switching to safer alternatives. Critics argue it's a disproportionate restriction that harms harm-reduction efforts and reinforces negative perceptions of vaping. Public health policies should be evidence-based. Banning vaping without proven risks undermines harm reduction and individual freedoms, contrary to the government's successful smoking cessation programs. This overcautious approach may perpetuate smoking and stigmatize vaping.

September 22, 2025 by independent.co.uk

Research suggests selling vapes in plain packaging could deter children while still serving as a tool for adult smokers to quit. A study by UCL and King’s College London showed standardised packs with limited flavor descriptions reduced youth appeal by 15%. Interest among adults remained steady. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to regulate vape marketing to protect children while supporting smokers trying to quit. The study emphasized finding a balance to discourage youth vaping without hindering adult cessation efforts. Standardized packaging could be effective in reducing youth interest without impacting adults' perception of harm. The findings highlight the importance of regulating vape packaging to strike a balance.

September 16, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

The UK ban on disposable vapes to reduce environmental impact and waste issues has backfired, with more vapes found in general recycling post-ban. Biffa reports a 3% increase with around a million vapes entering recycling monthly, despite the ban aiming to reduce them. The rise is partly attributed to cheap reusable vapes being treated as disposables. Improper disposal poses risks due to lithium battery fires and remains a challenge for waste management. The ban has failed to meet its goals of safeguarding health and the environment, as the disposal problem persists.