A leading independent retailer is urging retailers to write to the Government to oppose the Tobacco and Vapes Bill.
Paul Cheema of Malcolm’s Store in Coventry said: “We understand the government wants to stop smoking in the UK. However, as it stands, the Bill is likely to drive more customers to illicit cigarettes and illegal vapes instead, taking away our sales and giving them straight to criminals.
“And it’s not only our stores that are in danger, but our health and wellbeing too. Abuse of convenience store workers is at an all-time high. A future where we’ll need to ask customers well into adulthood for I.D. will only make this worse.
“It’s time to send a letter to Jonathan Reynolds MP, Secretary of State for Business & Trade.”
The Tobacco & Vapes Bill has now passed through the House of Commons and will be debated in the House of Lords on April 23.
Under the new bill, anyone born after 1 January 2009 will be banned from buying tobacco products.
Retailers will need a licence to sell vapes and displays of vapes will be restricted in-store. Vape packaging will be restricted to be less appealing to children.
Store owners who advertise tobacco or vape products in their business could face fines or a maximum two years in prison.
Some vape flavours will also be banned.
Retailers can sign the letter at https://protectyourstore.co.uk.
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