UKVIA Pushes for Changes to Tobacco and Vapes Bill: Key Proposals Explained

As the UK government advances the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, the UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) has been speaking up for vaping to ensure that adult smokers who want to quit continue to have access to products that work for them, while limiting access and appeal to children.

“The UKVIA has a legit and clear desire to see public health goals balanced with the need to protect legitimate adult access to harm-reduction tools,” says Markus Lindblad, Head of Communications at Vapeglobe.

“As the debate on the Tobacco and Vapes Bill continues, we all hope that the result will be measured and pragmatic, with regulation that supports industry growth and sustainability and recognises the positive public health impact of e-cigarettes.”

Below is a summary of some of the issues being discussed as the Tobacco and Vapes Bill makes its way through the House of Lords.

 

1. Flavours or flavour descriptors?

The UKVIA is in favour of legislation on flavour descriptors—such as “strawberry burst” or “cola fizz”—rather than flavours. This would mean that a wide variety of flavours would continue to be available to adults who want to use them, while preventing branding that might attract youth.

 

2. Mandatory Consultation with Industry and Consumers

UKVIA believes that there should be stronger consultation requirements before the government enacts new regulations. For example, there should be:

· Mandatory engagement with retailers, manufacturers, and consumer groups

· A public call for evidence as part of any rulemaking process

· An obligation for the Secretary of State to consider all submitted views when forming policy

This would make the regulatory process more transparent, evidence-based, and inclusive, particularly for small and micro businesses.

 

3. Advertising Exemptions for Specialist Vape Shops

To protect the advisory role of specialist retailers, UKVIA suggests that specialist vape stores should retain the right to advertise in-store, provided that:

· The shop derives over 90% of sales from vaping products

· Advertising is not visible from outside the premises

· Health warnings are included in line with regulatory requirements

This would ensure that smokers can still access advice and product information in a professional setting.

 

4. Narrow the Scope of Vape-Free Zones

Under the current bill, the government has broad powers to designate vape-free areas. UKVIA suggests that these restrictions should focus on areas where children are likely to be present such as:

· Public playgrounds

· Early years education providers

· Schools

This would prevent vaping bans from extending too far into public spaces, which could deter adult smokers from switching to vaping.

 

5. Five-Year Review of the Bill’s Impact

The UKVIA is in favour of a statutory review of the legislation five years after implementation, with a report to be laid before Parliament. The review should assess:

· The impact on smoking rates

· Vaping among children

· Use of vaping products for adult smoking cessation

· Economic effects on small and micro businesses

· Compliance rates across the sector

This would help ensure accountability and evidence-led policy evolution.

 

6. Introduce a National Licensing Scheme for Distributors

The UKVIA has long advocated in favour of a mandatory licensing system for those distributing vaping and tobacco products. This should apply across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland and include:

· Commercial and premises distribution licences

· Fines up to £100,000 for breaches

· Licence revocation powers and forfeiture of goods

· Oversight by local authorities, with funding retained through licence fees and penalties

Such a system could bring greater structure and traceability to the supply chain.