Call for review of the NCSCT role in vaping cession

Still from The Vaping Dilemma film Joe Woof, 2023.

Recommendations circulated to MP’s and media ahead of the final reading of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill January 2025

Executive Summary

Government advice on vaping has two parts (1) ‘If you smoke vape and (2) If you don’t smoke, don’t vape’.  Though it is understandable in this landmark bill that the emphasis is on the phasing out of smoking and supporting those quitting, we are concerned that part 2 of government advice is being ignored.  We recommend:

A separate prevention/cessation strategy for non-smokers and particularly young people distinct from that on vaping to stop smoking.

• A immediate review of the practices and guidance provided by the NCSCT, in relation to non-smoking vapers and young people and the need for cessation help in GPs and local councils.  Louise Ross should be immediately removed as Clinical Lead.

• Funding for vaping cessation for young people and appropriate guidance for GP’s, hospitals and local councils which upholds the ‘if you don’t smoke don’t vape’ recommendation and changes to NHS websites.

Vaping must be re-attached to smoking and recreational vaping prevented

• Restrictions as proposed on vape plain packaging, promotion and restriction of flavours to a small number (4-6) popular with smokers.

• Ban composite vapes and those which seek to subvert regulations by innovative designs.

• Restrict high street density through use of licensing to prevent inescapable availability which boosts usage among young people and non-smokers.

• Pay special attention to online availability which will become more popular and is currently flooded with illegal vapes with poor youth vaping controls.

Phase out vaping with smoking will signal that’s what they are for

• Phase out vaping alongside cigarettes, after a medically agreed lag time of say 3 years, will not hinder smoke-free objectives and will prevent a future where nicotine addiction among young people and non-smokers.