Fed responds to potential Scotland single-use vape ban with illicit sales warning

Unveiling his Programme for Government yesterday (5 Septemeber), Mr Yousaf said a consultation on banning the devices would be launched next year.

Yousaf said that disposable vapes were a threat to both public health and the environment.

“We know that the bright colours and sweet flavours catch the eye of children and young people in particular,” he added.

Responding, the Fed’s president in Scotland Hussan Lal said: “Banning disposable vapes will simply expand an already booming illicit market.

“Vapes help many give up smoking and are part of life now.  I am confident the black market will become even more active.  These illicit products are already on sale at car boot sales, mobile phone shops, cafes and tanning salons as well as via the internet and by dealers delivering direct to homes.

“Rather than looking to ban single use vapes, the government should be looking at responsible ways of recycling them and more educational campaigns.”

Anti-smoking campaign group Action of Smoking and Health (ASH) has also warned that a ban would increase the trade in illegal vapes as well as making it harder for some adults to give up smoking.

The Fed said it will respond to the consultation when it opens next year.

Scotland’s consultation comes as the French Prime Minister Elizabeth Borne suggested that France would ban the sale of disposable electronic cigarettes.