The UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA), represented by its Director General John Dunne, has been actively engaging with the media to address concerns surrounding the potential ban on disposable vapes in the UK. Through a series of interviews on prominent channels, including BBC Radio and GB News, Dunne shared UKVIA's stance and outlined the possible consequences of such a ban, particularly on illegal trade and public health.
Key Points from UKVIA’s Media Engagement
1. Impact on Illegal Trade and Organised Crime
Dunne expressed strong concerns that banning disposable vapes would open opportunities for black-market sales, particularly as the proposed ban does not restrict imports. He argued that rogue businesses would exploit this gap, making it easier to sell unregulated, illegal products, ultimately benefiting organised crime rather than reducing youth access to vaping.
2. Burden on Trading Standards
Dunne highlighted that Trading Standards, already strained by limited resources, would be further stretched by the enforcement demands of a ban. UKVIA advocates for a licensing scheme for distributors, projected to generate £50 million annually, which could help fund Trading Standards and improve enforcement against rogue operators.
3. Alternatives to a Ban
UKVIA believes that a ban is not the most effective solution and has suggested several alternative strategies:
- Increase Tank Limit: Raising the current tank limit from 2ml to 10ml could reduce vape waste, as this restriction is widely seen as unnecessary and unsupported by research.
- Stronger Enforcement of Existing Laws: Dunne underscored the importance of enforcing laws that prohibit sales to under-18s and require businesses to meet environmental regulations.
- Education Campaign: A national campaign to encourage proper vape disposal was also proposed as part of a broader effort to address environmental concerns related to disposable vapes.
4. Lessons from Australia’s Prescription-Only Model
When questioned on the potential for a prescription-only approach, Dunne pointed to the unintended effects seen in Australia, where strict regulations led to a surge in black-market activities. He emphasized that vapes have been effective tools for smoking cessation in the UK, citing independent research that supports their role in harm reduction.
5. Call for a Distributor Licensing Scheme
UKVIA is pushing for a licensing system that would empower Trading Standards by generating additional funding, which could then be used to monitor and penalize non-compliant businesses effectively. This scheme, Dunne explained, would also strengthen the government's ability to enforce age restrictions on vape sales, helping to prevent underage access.
6. Concerns Over Environmental Impact and Vape Waste
Dunne addressed the environmental impact of disposable vapes, arguing that a ban might not be the optimal solution and suggesting that increasing tank sizes and promoting responsible disposal could be more effective.
In summary, UKVIA's media outreach underscores the association's position that a comprehensive, well-funded enforcement system, alongside regulatory adjustments, could address concerns more effectively than an outright ban. By improving funding for Trading Standards and focusing on education and licensing, UKVIA hopes to strike a balance that mitigates youth access and environmental impact without undermining the benefits of vaping for adult smokers seeking a less harmful alternative.
References:
Vaping Products Duty consultation response
