New vape tax is not being introduced quickly enough, says MP

The new duty on vaping products is being brought in as part of the new Tobacco and Vapes Bill but will not come into effect until October 2026.

East Renfrewshire MP Kirsten Oswald has urged the UK government to move faster on implementing this to eliminate disposable vapes.

She says the bill is a step in the right direction to making Scotland smoke-free and tackling the detrimental impact of vapes on children’s health, but more needs to be done.

The bill follows a four-nation consultation on tackling smoking and vaping bill all four governments in the UK agreed to develop a UK law.

Ms Oswald said: “Having long campaigned on this issue and after a consultation showing overwhelming support for action in Scotland, I am proud that SNP MPs supported the Bill that will set us on the path to deliver a smoke-free Scotland and tackle the scourge of disposable vapes and the impact they have on children’s health.

“The forthcoming ban on disposable vapes is welcome but it remains a disappointment that we will have to wait until next year for the ban to be implemented, and until 2026 for a vape tax to be introduced. Scotland shouldn’t have to wait for Westminster to act.

“Action now needs to be taken to regulate the advertisement of disposable vapes in sporting venues and on sporting kits.

“The SNP will continue to push for further action to finally eliminate disposable vapes.”