Tobacco firm calls for tougher rules on vapes

The London-based tobacco company BAT has called for “more stringent” regulations on vaping, including a licensing regime similar to alcohol and cigarettes.

It also wants a ban on flavours which “uniquely” target children.

The government is already considering new regulations amid concerns that many young people are vaping.

It has promised legislation following a public consultation that is currently underway.

BAT is the third-largest seller of vapes in the UK, according to market research firm NielsenIQ. It sells Rothmans and Lucky Strike cigarettes, and is the most successful of the big western tobacco companies when it comes to the UK's booming market for disposable vapes, thought to be worth at least £3bn a year.

BAT is calling for vape sellers to be licensed, and for licences to be taken away from firms caught selling to minors. You must be 18 to legally buy vapes in the UK.

The company also wants a ban on soft drink, sweet or dessert flavours such as gummy bear or cotton candy, which it says appeal “uniquely” to the young.

BAT doesn’t sell these flavours, though they have been a factor in the success of market leader Elfbar, the number two, SKE, and other brands.

• Shock as New Zealand axes world-first smoking ban

• Councils call for ban on disposable vapes by 2024

• Ban on flavoured vapes and tax hike considered

A recent survey by the anti-smoking group ASH found that 20.5% of children had tried vaping, up from 15.8% in 2022.

The Local Government Association has called for single-use vapes to be banned, as they cause a litter problem and a fire risk in bin lorries, and appeal too strongly to children.

And while experts warn that vapes are safer than cigarettes, they still contain addictive nicotine and do have a health impact, which is not yet fully understood.

“We recognise that some want single-use vapes banned altogether,” said Asli Ertonguc, BAT lead for the UK. “But we are concerned such a move would lead to unregulated sales, and less options for adult smokers looking to switch.”

BAT wants a ban on cartoon imagery on packets. However, it does not support a ban on colourful packaging, nor on advertising or sports sponsorship – as it argues that these are still an important way to convince smokers to switch. BAT sponsors the motor racing team McLaren.

The consultation on e-cigarette regulations ends on 6 December, and legislation in England, Scotland and Wales is expected “as soon as possible” afterwards.