Scottish Greens call for ‘robust’ licensing scheme for sales of vapes

The Scottish Greens have called on ministers to introduce a “robust” licensing system for vapes as part of plans to regulate the industry.

Health spokesperson Gillian Mackay urged the government to introduce a scheme under which councils would be given the power to grant and refuse licences to premises wishing to sell the products.

UK ministers are already considering a Bill which, if approved, will restrict sweet vape flavours and review the packaging of e-cigarettes to reduce their appeal to children and young people.

It includes a total ban on vape advertising and sponsorship, including displays seen by children and young people, bringing them in line with current tobacco restrictions.

Ms Mackay said: “The tobacco and vaping industries are doing a huge amount of damage to the health of people in Scotland and beyond, yet they remain very poorly regulated.

“A robust licensing scheme can tip the balance and ensure that we are taking action to put health before the profits of an industry which all too often targets young people and encourages addictive and harmful behaviours.

“Local authorities should have the power to refuse licences and introduce proper repercussions including the removal of a licence for retailers who flout the rules.

“The forthcoming ban on disposable vapes will be a really important milestone for public health and for our communities.

“But we also need retailers to play their part by making their licence conditional on providing recycling points and services.

“If the registration fee was set at a rate that would more than cover the costs of administering the scheme it could also raise vital revenues for councils to support the services that we all rely on.”

Public Health Minister Jenni Minto said: “Scotland is the only country in the UK that requires retailers selling both tobacco and vapes to be registered.

“The Tobacco and Vapes Bill, if passed, will mean that the register will be extended to cover nicotine and herbal smoking products.

“As part of our Tobacco and Vaping Framework, we are improving the register and considering possible further conditions on registration.”