New Research Shows Overwhelming Support for Stricter Penalties
A recent survey reveals widespread public dissatisfaction with the Government’s proposed measures to penalise retailers caught selling vapes to minors. The findings point to a growing demand for harsher sanctions to protect underage individuals and tackle the issue of illegal vape sales effectively.
Public Criticism of Current Proposals
The independent research, conducted by Britain in Focus and commissioned by BAT UK, surveyed almost 6,000 people. The results show strong disapproval of the Government’s plan to impose £200 on-the-spot fines for shopkeepers caught selling vapes to children. Over half of those polled labelled the fines as too lenient, while nearly two-thirds stated they were too low to deter illegal sales effectively.
When presented with alternative penalty options, 30% of respondents expressed support for fines of up to £1,000. This indicates significant public demand for more stringent measures to hold unethical retailers accountable.
Support for a Retail Licensing System
The introduction of a retail licensing scheme is one of the proposed solutions to combat underage vaping. This scheme would ensure that only licensed retailers are authorised to sell vaping products, helping to eliminate illegal sales and regulate the market more effectively.
Despite the scheme’s potential benefits, the Government has not yet announced when it will be implemented or how breaches of the licence will be penalised. Public opinion on the matter is clear: 52% of respondents want the system introduced within the next three months. By contrast, only 1% support delaying the scheme beyond two years.
Backing for Stricter Licence Enforcement
The public’s call for tougher punishments is not limited to financial penalties. The survey also found that 67% of participants support a “Three Strikes and You’re Out” policy, where retailers lose their licence permanently if they breach regulations three times. Comparatively, just 22% favoured temporary licence suspensions, while only 2% opposed any change to licensing rules.
BAT UK’s Perspective on the Research
BAT UK, the nation’s largest vaping manufacturer, commissioned the study to gauge public sentiment and advocate for tighter regulations. As a proponent of the UK’s goal to become smoke-free by 2030, BAT UK stresses that tougher enforcement is critical to achieving this target.
Asli Ertonguc, Head of BAT UK & Western Europe, commented: The public’s stance is clear: current proposals do not go far enough to safeguard the underage. A robust licensing system paired with stricter enforcement is essential. Retailers must understand that breaking the law will have serious, lasting consequences.
The Government has an opportunity to act decisively by strengthening the Tobacco and Vapes Bill. Without tougher penalties, the Bill risks falling short of its goals and failing to protect the most vulnerable members of our society.
Key Findings in Detail
- Fine Levels: Over 60% of respondents view £200 fines as insufficient, with 30% favouring penalties of £1,000.
- Timing for Licensing: 52% want a licensing scheme implemented within three months, while only 1% accept delays exceeding two years.
- Licence Revocation: 67% back permanent bans for retailers with three breaches, highlighting strong support for strict enforcement.
With the Tobacco and Vapes Bill progressing through Parliament, the public’s call for action is louder than ever. To achieve a smoke-free society by 2030, the Government must ensure that regulations are effective, enforceable, and focused on protecting future generations.