Northern Ireland's Lax Age Controls on Vapers: A Danger to Young People
According to a recent survey published by The Irish News, nearly 80% of e-cigarette users in Northern Ireland say they have never been asked to verify their age when purchasing their products. This is the highest figure in the UK, where the national average is still 45%, signalling a notable weakness in age checks on vapers.
Lagging Cities and Ahead Cities
Belfast, Norwich and Plymouth have the lowest rates of age checks when purchasing vaping products, while Newcastle, Southampton and Birmingham are the exceptions, asking more for proof of age. The survey of 1 e-cigarette users also found gender inequality in checks, with women being asked more frequently than men.
Supermarkets: Weak Links in Controls
Supermarkets are particularly lax, with 48% of UK respondents saying they were not asked to check their age in these establishments. This worrying figure highlights a failure to comply with sales responsibilities and regulations, increasing the risk of sales to minors.
The Tobacco and E-cigarette Bill: Towards Increased Repression
Faced with this worrying situation, the British government has introduced the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, a bill designed to strengthen the fight against the sale of vaping products to minors. The new legislation provides for fines of up to £2 for retailers who breach the ban. David Phillips, representing Vape Superstore and who commissioned the investigation, said it was essential that retailers take greater responsibility to protect young people.
"While the Tobacco and Vapes Bill "With the law coming into force, it is crucial that retailers take concrete steps to keep vaping products out of the hands of children," Phillips said. He added that the survey results demonstrate majority support among e-cigarette users for stricter measures to protect young people.
The original goal of e-cigarettes, he recalls, is to offer adults an alternative to quitting smoking, not to create a nicotine habit among young people.
