Senior Tories have branded Labour’s controversial Tobacco and Vapes Bill as “madness” due to a clause suggesting that people who knowingly market smoking or vaping-related products could face up to two years in prison. The legislation, which passed its second reading last week with an overwhelming majority, aims to create a smoke-free generation by imposing a UK-wide ban on the advertising, brand sharing, and sponsorship of herbal smoking products, cigarette papers, vaping, and nicotine products.
Shadow Business Minister Greg Smith criticized the potential two-year prison sentence for advertising nicotine products to adults seeking to quit cigarettes as “wholly inappropriate.” Tory MP Peter Bedford echoed these sentiments, calling the Bill “draconian” and expressing concern about the government’s “hell-bent” approach to control. Bedford questioned the slippery slope this legislation could lead to, suggesting that imprisonment for advertising alcohol or foods with arbitrary calorie counts or fat content could be next.
Campaigners Call for Amendment to Remove Advertising Clause
Despite passing its second reading by 415 votes to 47, the Bill faces opposition from senior Tories, including leader Kemi Badenoch. Shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick emphasized the need for more education and less banning. Campaigners are now urging MPs to amend the proposals and remove the advertising clause as the legislation progresses through Parliament.
The Adam Smith Institute think tank warned that the new powers to restrict the sale and advertising of vapes and other quitting aids will do more harm than good. They argued that the Bill not only insults the intelligence of adults but also prevents smokers from quitting by limiting the marketing of alternative products. The think tank called on the Government and Parliament to urgently reconsider the path of this Bill, citing significant risks to the aim of reaching a smoke-free future.
Government Defends Bill, Emphasizes Protecting Children and Young People
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson defended the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, stating that the deliberate marketing and advertisement of vapes to children and young people is unacceptable. The spokesperson highlighted that the Bill aims to prevent the next generation from becoming hooked on nicotine by banning vape advertising and providing powers to restrict vape flavors, packaging, and shop displays.
The government pointed out that the advertising of tobacco products has been restricted since 2003, and the Bill extends this to herbal smoking products, cigarette papers, vapes, and nicotine products. They clarified that prison sentences could be given for the most serious offenses under the new legislation.
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