Vaping Legislation & the General Election
Have the recent developments regarding the prospective law to regulate vaping thrown our industry's future into uncertainty? Or could this be a ray of hope that the incoming government will listen to consumers and adjust the policy to suit everyone?
When Rishi Sunak announced this bill that set it sights on a smoke-free generation, he hinted at an inevitable and sweeping change in our industry’s landscape.
After his announcement on Wednesday of the next general election, the government’s delay in pushing the Tobacco & Vapes Bill only adds another layer of unpredictability. The omission of this crucial bill from the set of legislation to be finalised before parliament dissolves means we are yet again at the whim of politicians. Despite Sunak's strong stance during his speech, vowing to ensure that vaping products would be regulated, the bill didn't make it into Commons leader Penny Mordaunt’s list for the wash-up. This exclusion means that the bill will remain stalled.
It's no secret that a large portion of the public have lost trust in the Conservatives in the last few years, however the smoking/vaping policy is supported by both major parties. This means that if the Labour party takes the majority in the upcoming general election, we could be forced to brace for substantial changes once again, whether that be positive and led by the consumers, or in the form of even further restrictions.
It is unclear how this delay will shape consumer behaviours and the broader regulatory environment we're so closely tied to. One thing we can be sure of is that we can take this hold up as an opportunity to make our voices heard. The looming possibility of a flavour ban still hangs over us. We need to make it clear to the next government that a choice in flavours keeps us from making a switch back to smoking and therefore reduces risk of illness for the general population.
For the time being, all that we can do is stay informed with what’s happening in Parliament and make sure to get out to the polls and vote come July 4. Advocate for policies that acknowledge how effective vaping is in reducing smoking rates. Talk to the people that you know to share your views and your concerns.
The only way we can effect change is to make our voices heard - and that’s true both for national policies and for the vaping industry.
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