Scottish Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) have unanimously approved a legislative consent motion supporting the UK’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill.
This landmark legislation, currently progressing through the UK Parliament, aims to establish a “smoke-free generation” by prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to anyone born after 1 January 2009.
The Bill also introduces stringent regulations on the advertising, sale, and packaging of vaping products, aiming to curb their appeal to young people.
Public Health Minister Jenni Minto lauded the legislation, emphasizing its alignment with Scotland’s broader public health goals, including a target of a tobacco-free Scotland by 2034.
Minto highlighted the bill’s provisions to prevent the promotion and advertisement of vapes and nicotine products to children, aiming to reduce nicotine addiction among young people.
Having passed the House of Commons, the Bill is currently under review in the House of Lords. Key components include a ban on vape advertising and sponsorship, along with powers to control vape flavors and packaging.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to combat the detrimental health effects of smoking, a leading cause of preventable mortality and morbidity in the UK.
While smoking rates have declined, vaping rates, particularly among younger adults and those who have never smoked, have seen a significant increase.
The legislation includes a ban on the sale and supply of disposable vapes from June 1, 2025.
Further details regarding the impact of the legislation and related political developments are available in separate reports.