The new law extends the existing prohibition on selling nicotine vapes to minors, now also forbidding the sale of nicotine-free vapes and products such as nicotine pouches to children. This measure is part of the phased implementation of the Tobacco and Vapes Act, which became law on 29 April 2026.
The ban also introduces restrictions on promotional giveaways, substantial discounts, and sales through vending machines for vaping and nicotine products. Local authorities have been granted new enforcement powers, including the ability to issue £200 fixed penalty notices to tackle rogue traders.
“"As a result of the new law, children will be better protected from respiratory illnesses and will have an opportunity to live healthier lives. It also means that businesses and rogue traders will no longer be able to benefit from the sale of these harmful, addictive products to children and young people."
Havering Council is also benefiting from a specialist apprentice within its Trading Standards team, dedicated to addressing illicit and underage tobacco and vape sales. These measures align with the government’s ambition for a smoke-free UK and the 10-Year Health Plan for England, focusing on prevention.
While legal vapes can support adult smokers in quitting, Councillor Day noted that the long-term impact of vaping is still unknown, and it should not be used by non-smokers or for recreational purposes. Stop smoking services will continue to provide products to adults looking to quit smoking.
“"The evidence shows that legal vapes can be less harmful than tobacco and can support people who wish to stop smoking, but we don’t yet know the long-term impact of vaping, so it should therefore not be used by people who have never smoked or for recreational purposes."
