Mid Suffolk District Council states support for ban on disposable vapes as government consultation continues

Mid Suffolk District Council has stated its support for a ban on disposable vapes as the Government continues its consultation.

Concern over vaping, particularly among children, has increased over the last year as its uptake skyrocketed to 20.5 per cent of all children in 2023.

The Government has responded by launching a consultation into how best to address the problem.

Cllr John Matthissen brought up the issue during this morning’s Mid Suffolk cabinet meeting, asking what the council’s stance on vaping would be.

Cllr Tim Weller, the cabinet member for environment, culture, and wellbeing, said something must be done about the appeal to children.

He added: “This administration supports a ban on disposable vapes and will make its position known to the Secretary of State.

“We recognise vapes are one of the best ways for smokers to reduce smoking.

“However, we know that the reality is different in Suffolk.”

Cllr Weller insisted on the importance of making sure retailers comply with regulations regarding the displaying of vapes on shop fronts, which are often bright-coloured and inviting with different flavours.

Disposable vapes are also a driving factor in pollution and recycling, with around 8000 vapes per week being thrown away in Suffolk alone.

The lithium batteries inside vapes can also lead to ‘fires breaking out’, with seven such events in Suffolk being attributed to these batteries since February 2022.

The consultation is part of the Government’s larger effort to control smoking and create a ‘smoke-free generation’ — something which was mentioned earlier today during the King’s speech.

King Charles stated his Government would ensure children born after January 1, 2009, “can never be sold cigarettes”.

It is unclear, however, if this political appetite would lead to a complete ban on the sale of disposable vapes, or simply result in a tightening of restrictions and enforcement.

The consultation will run until December 6 and can be found here.