Labour’s £200 Fines for Selling Vapes to Kids Are Too Low, Says Imperial Brands
Imperial Brands argues that £200 fines for selling vapes to kids are insufficient and calls for much higher penalties to deter retailers.
Vapes, Kids, Fines, Imperial Brands, New Zealand, UK
London: Retailers selling vapes to kids face calls for much higher fines. Imperial Brands, a major tobacco company, wants penalties increased to tens of thousands of pounds. They believe the current £200 fine is too low to deter bad behavior.
Labour’s proposed fines start at £200 and can go up to £2,500. However, Imperial Brands argues this isn’t enough. They suggest looking at New Zealand, where fines start at £930 and can reach £47,000 for serious offenses.
Vape manufacturers are pushing for stricter penalties. They worry that if retailers continue selling to kids, it could lead to more regulations. Wes Streeting’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill could hurt the e-cig sector, which is worth £18 billion globally.
Imperial Brands, known for Blu vapes, wants the Health Secretary to increase fines. James Hall from the company says the UK should follow New Zealand’s example. He emphasizes the need for higher fines and better enforcement of rules.
Local council leaders also support tougher fines. They fear some retailers might see the current penalties as just a cost of doing business. The new legislation could also ban sweet flavors that attract kids, like candy floss and bubble gum.
While vapes can help smokers quit, the Department for Health warns they still pose risks, especially for kids. Youth vaping has doubled in the last five years, with 25% of children trying it in 2023.
Starting in June, disposable vapes will be banned. Users will need to switch to refillable devices.