Holyrood backs UK legislation

Health charities have lauded MSPs after they gave their backing to UK legislation aiming to create a smoke-free generation.

MSPs agreed to Westminster passing a law which affects a devolved issue and backed the UK-wide Tobacco and Vapes Bill.

The bill bans tobacco products for anyone born after 1 January 2009 and restricts the advertising and sale of vapes.

Smoking rates have fallen in recent years but vaping rates have risen sharply, especially among under-35s and those who have never used cigarettes.

Cancer Research UK’s senior public affairs manager in Scotland, Debbie King, said: “This vote in favour of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill brings us another step closer to ending cancers caused by smoking. By supporting this historic legislation, members of Scottish Parliament have acted to protect the health of the nation and help create a smokefree generation.”

The legislation has passed votes in the House of Commons and is currently going through the House of Lords.

Sheila Duffy, chief executive of ASH Scotland, said: “In supporting the World Health Organisation’s 2025 World No Tobacco Day campaign in Scotland, the predatory tobacco and nicotine industry’s marketing tactics must be stopped to prevent a new wave of addiction and today’s vote sends a signal that our elected representatives are rising to that challenge.

“We welcome the cross party support for the proposed robust measures in the UK government’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill and the Scottish government’s LCM to restrict the advertising and promotions of nicotine pouches and vapes to reduce their visibility and availability and protect the health of children now and of future generations.”