Ban for under-18's to buy e-cigarettes & vaping products from 2023

A new law to ban sales of e-cigarettes and vaping products to under 18s will come into force by Easter next year.

It comes following questioning on the issue to the Island's Cabinet Office Minister in the House of Keys this morning.

Now, it's been confirmed a public health vaping regulation Bill is being drafted, with a commitment by Minister Lord-Brennan to introduce the legislation in the coming months.

It's hoped a draft public consultation will be completed before Christmas.

In a statement,  government says over recent months there has been reports of a significant increase in the use of vapes - coming from a wide range of sources, including schools. 

Further, evidence from the Island's Constabulary has also indicatd an increase in the number of retail thefts of vaping products.

The EU and UK introduced regulatory controls for nicotine containing products in 2016, with  strong medical advice from across the world on the dangers of smoking and vaping.

Minister for the Cabinet Office, Kate Lord-Brennan, said: ‘We are acting in response to the growing concerns raised.  I am committed to bringing forward new legislation to help us protect our children and young people, and support retailers by providing clear legislation similar to that which applies for tobacco. The Public Health Vaping Regulation Bill will form the basis of this by making the sale of vaping products to children illegal, but additional guidance and advice will also be produced.’

Public Health is working alongside colleagues within the Isle of Man Constabulary and Office of Fair Trading to engage with retailers around future legislation changes in relation to vaping.

Public Health also says it will also develop a policy and awareness campaign, alongside the Department of Education, Sport and Culture, for all schools, students, teachers and parents.