The Children’s Commissioner has called for urgent action over the 'Wild West market' of selling vapes to under-18s.
Dame Rachel de Souza says the Government should ban the vaping industry from selling nicotine-free vapes to under-18s and end the sale of the disposable versions.
The call, made in a submission to the Department for Health and Social Care’s consultation on youth vaping, comes amid growing concerns about the impact of the habit on children’s health and wellbeing.
New research by the Children’s Commissioner shows that children’s experiences of school are being negatively affected by vaping.
Parents also raised concerns about the packaging and flavourings of vapes, which attract children.
Dame de Souza said: 'We urgently need stricter regulation of this Wild West market.
'It is insidious that these products are intentionally marketed and promoted to children, both online and offline.
'Many children who are addicted to vaping have never even smoked tobacco, with vaping acting as a gateway rather than a quitting strategy.
'Children deserve to lead long, happy, healthy lives, which is why I am unequivocal in my view that no child should be smoking or vaping.
'The DHSC’s consultation on youth vaping is a timely opportunity to consider the risks, and I sincerely hope it will be the catalyst for change that is so urgently needed.'
Sign up here to receive our free daily news and jobs bulletin.
