A cross-party group on vaping has been re-launched in the UK ahead of the proposed Tobacco and Vapes Bill.
The APPG (All-Party Parliamentary Group) for Responsible Vaping was initially established in July, but was put on hold while the general election took place.
Now, it is being reformed to provide a crucial voice on vaping within Parliament, with a focus on proportionate regulation and responsibility within the sector.
Supported by the Independent British Vape Trade Association (IBVTA), the APPG for Responsible Vaping supports an ‘evidence-based’ approach to vaping regulation.
This means it will consider the positive benefits of vaping in helping people to quit smoking alongside concerns such as a rise in children vaping and the illegal vape trade.
Fresh inquiry into vaping
The group has been tasked with conducting a fresh inquiry into vaping over the next two months. It will gather evidence and insights from experts on all sides of the vaping debate, as it considers how to best address the key issues.
It is asking for submissions from experts in respiratory health, epidemiology, and tobacco dependence as well as from smoking cessation stakeholders - particularly those with first-hand experience of using vapes within ‘quit smoking’ services.
Topics to be discussed include the public health benefits of vaping, and its environmental and economic impact.
The inquiry findings will form a report and feature analysis of the government’s proposed measures to better regulate the vape sector, including the introduction of a new vape tax from 2026, potential restrictions on flavours and a ban on disposable devices.
The report will also put forward practical and legislative suggestions around vaping.
Driving industry-led improvement
The APPG said it seeks to understand and highlight best practices within the sector to support adults in quitting smoking while also stopping children from vaping, protecting the environment and tackling the illicit vape trade.
It will play a significant role in identifying and encouraging industry-led improvement.
Chair of the APPG for Responsible Vaping, Mary Glindon MP, said: “The APPG for Responsible Vaping has acted as a focal point for vaping issues within Parliament and I am delighted that the group has been reconstituted with cross-party support.
“I would encourage everyone with an interest in vaping to respond to the call for evidence that the APPG is launching today on the role of vaping and the government’s proposed regulations.
“Bringing together experts from a range of respective fields, to address the key issues associated with vaping, is crucial and we urge the government to work closely with the APPG over the coming months to ensure that the regime we end up with is fair and balanced, without risking the many benefits that vaping can bring.
“I look forward to seeing the inquiry findings, particularly in encouraging industry-led improvement and putting forward practical and legislative suggestions ahead of the upcoming Tobacco and Vapes Bill.”
The deadline for evidence submissions to the inquiry is 31 October.
