Ban on the sale of vapes to under 18s approved

A proposal to introduce wide-ranging controls on vaping products in Guernsey has been passed by the States.

The Committee for Health and Social Care has introduced the legislation in response to concerns about the marketing of vapes to children.

A ban on the sale of vapes to under 18s will come into effect "by the end of the current political term", the States of Guernsey said.

Dr Nicola Brink, director of public health, said the legislation was "important to protect the health of children and young people".

She said: "Nicotine is an addictive substance and while vapes can help some adult smokers to give up smoking, they are not suitable products for children."

Advertising regulations for vapes will come into force on 31st October 2025 and a ban on disposable vapes will come into force on 31st January 2026, the states said.

The states added: "Vapes are becoming increasingly popular and while they can be a useful tool to help adults give up smoking, the long-term risks of vaping in children and young people are unknown."

Deputy Al Brouard, president of the Committee for Health and Social Care, said: "The committee is delighted that this legislation was passed by the assembly in what is a positive health promotion policy, particularly for children and young people in Guernsey."

Follow BBC Guernsey on X and Facebook. Send your story ideas to [email protected].