The Chancellor’s vape tax is wrong in principle and childlike in application

The Chancellor's vape tax proposal is criticized for penalizing smokers who switch to vaping, contradicting the government's smoking cessation efforts. The tax on vaping liquids is significantly higher than on cigarettes, discouraging smokers from transitioning to vaping and potentially leading to increased use of illicit products. The tax undermines the Smokefree 2030 goal and fails to consider scientific evidence on nicotine absorption. The government's approach lacks consultation with industry and health experts, risking negative impacts on public health and harm reduction efforts. The proposal is seen as ill-informed and harmful, possibly driven by financial motives rather than genuine health concerns.