BARNSLEY’S three MPs have backed plans to make it illegal for anyone currently aged 15 or younger to ever buy cigarettes - while new legislation will also come down on the vaping industry like a ‘ton of bricks’.
The idea was originally proposed by Rishi Sunak’s Conservative government but was taken forward by Labour after previous legislation ran out of time to pass before July’s general election.
The new Tobacco and Vapes Bill passed its first Commons hurdle comfortably by 415 votes to 47, with Barnsley North’s Dan Jarvis, Barnsley South’s Stephanie Peacock and Penistone and Stocksbridge’s Marie Tidball all voting in favour.
The bill will face further scrutiny from MPs and peers but is likely to become law to create a ‘smoke-free nation’.
Subject to consultation, the sale of vape flavours that appeal to children - such as bubble gum, gummy bear and cotton candy - could be brought to an end, alongside restrictions on vape packaging that is designed to appeal to young people.
It will bring in a total ban on vape advertising and sponsorship which will include displays that will likely be seen by children and young people such as on buses, in cinemas and in shop windows, bringing this in line with current tobacco restrictions.
All vaping and nicotine products will be banned from being sold to under-18s - closing loopholes on non-nicotine vapes and nicotine pouches.
Vapes will also be banned in vending machines, where they can be easily accessed by children.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting told the Commons the measures in the bill, which also include steps to tackle youth vaping, ‘add up to the most significant public health intervention in a generation’.
He added: “This bill will come down on the vaping industry like a ton of bricks to prevent a new generation of children and young people from getting hooked on nicotine.
“The number of children vaping is growing at an alarming rate and without urgent intervention, we’re going to have a generation of children with long-term addiction.
“It is unacceptable that these harmful products are being deliberately targeted at children with brightly-coloured packaging and flavours like ‘gummy bear’ and ‘rainbow burst’.
“The Tobacco and Vapes Bill provides the protection that children and young people need to avoid a life imprisoned by addiction.”
Barnsley’s smoking rate reached a record low, with about 15 per cent of its population classed as smokers, although the rate in which vaping has grown - particularly among youngsters - has caused concern.
Anna Hartley, executive director for public health and communities for Barnsley Council, said: “We’re committed to making sure everyone in our communities can get the support they need to live happier, healthier, longer lives.
“It is a huge concern as although they’re no doubt less harmful than smoking cigarettes, the long-term impacts of vaping is still unknown.
“All forms of nicotine are highly addictive and illegal vapes have higher-than-normal amounts.
“They’re cheaper, they’re becoming more available and it’s important that children in particular are protected from being exposed.
“Anything unnatural that lungs are exposed to is a concern but the rise in youngsters vaping is an issue we want to take action on.”
