Campaign group We Vape is urging retailers and vapers to “protect the future of harm reduction” by giving evidence to the government as part of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill.
It wants vendors to respond to a parliamentary call, explaining the importance of e-cigs and how the new Bill might impact the numbers of people who choose to vape instead of smoke.
The group is also encouraging businesses to ‘spread the word’ among consumers about how to respond to the government’s request for more data, as it advances the Bill.
The appeal follows a planned ban on advertising, which critics fear will prevent vital education of smokers that vapes are significantly safer than cigarettes, said the campaign group.
We Vape founder Mark Oates explained the call to evidence is a rare opportunity for retailers and consumers on the ground to have their say on vaping: “We know the potential restriction to flavours will drive many ex smokers back to the death sentence that is cigarettes, while the advertising ban means we cannot educate the staggering 50% of smokers who think vaping is more harmful than smoking.
“Both these elements of the bill already imply vaping is as bad for you as smoking, which is entirely wrong and contrary to the NHS policy of handing out starter packs to adults wanting to quit cigarettes.
“Vape retailers and vapers are best qualified to speak on the tastes and purchase options that draw smokers to vaping and can provide the expert evidence the government needs. It is vital its decisions protect the rights of vapers to choose the flavours that help stop them smoking, as well as allowing smokers to be educated about the health benefits of making the switch.”
We Vape said the government wants to hear from those with ‘relevant expertise, experience or a special interest’ in vaping, who can provide proof of its importance as the Bill enters the committee stage of approval.
The second reading of the Bill was overwhelmingly voted through 415 votes to 47 votes on 26 November as part of the government’s drive for a ‘smoke free generation’.
The first sitting of the Public Bill Committee to hear evidence is expected to be on 7 January 2025, with a final submission deadline of Thursday 30 January.
Contributors are strongly advised to submit evidence well in advance of the deadline. This can be done in writing to the House of Commons Public Bill Committee, here.
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