The UK Vaping Industry Association welcomes the announcement of a new £10 million funding boost for Trading Standards, which promises to strengthen action against illicit tobacco and vapes.
Our Director General John Dunne said: “While the legitimate vape sector is committed to the shared goal of helping adult smokers make the switch, there are some unscrupulous sellers who have no problem flouting the law to line their own pockets.
“This is why we have long called for greater investment in enforcement – so Trading Standards are armed with the resources they need to bring the hammer down on the rogue players who are putting consumers in danger and undermining the potential of vaping as a force for public health good.
“It’s also why we launched our highly successful Be Vape Vigilant campaign, which supports intelligence-led enforcement by encouraging consumers and the general public to report any suspected underage or illegal vape sales. So far, more than 1,000 potential illicit vape sellers have been flagged to Trading Standards through the scheme.
He continued: “What we now need are much more significant penalties for those caught breaking the rules. While an improvement, the £200 on-the-spot fines being introduced in the Tobacco and Vapes Bill are far from what’s needed.
“Under the industry’s vape licensing framework, rogue retailers and distributors would face fines of up to £10,000 and £100,000 respectively. The scheme would also see repeat offenders barred from selling vapes and would generate a predicted £50m+ per year in additional funding for Trading Standards.
“Action to strengthen enforcement is an absolute must and this announcement is a step in the right direction. Now we want to see Government invest even further to ensure rogue sellers feel the full force of the law, consumers can be better protected from illegal products and the legitimate sector can make the fullest contribution to the mission for a smokefree future.”