Tobacco Harm Reduction News
28th January 2025
AU Firebombing #218, Stanthorpe, Queensland - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
A Stanthorpe tobacco shop was destroyed in a fire early this morning.
It was the second suspicious fire at the premises in 48 hours and spread to nearby businesses.
Police are investigating and believe both incidents are linked.
5th April 2024
AU Firebombing (Missed Earlier) #217, Gippsland, Victoria - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Rebels bikies Matthew Savage and Jahmahl Pearson jailed over illicit Gippsland tobacco fires
Two Rebels bikies have been jailed after driving five hours across Victoria to set a Gippsland smoke shop alight in what was one of the most remote incidents in the state’s ongoing tobacco war.
25th January 2025
AU Firebombing #216, Nerang, Queensland - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Fire crews have been battling a blaze in a Nerang tobacco store.
The fire broke out in the business on Price St at around 4.30am on Friday with smoke and flames seen coming from the store.
18th January 2025
AU Firebombing #215, Beenleigh, Queensland - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Police are treating a fire at a Beenleigh tobacconist in the early hours of Saturday morning as suspicious, following a string of arson attacks across Brisbane and fears of a growing tobacco turf war.
Emergency crews were called to Uncle Billy’s Tobacconist on City Road in Beenleigh, near Logan, around 4.30am.
They arrived to find the business fully engulfed.
15th January 2025
AU Firebombing #214, Prahran, Victoria - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Suspicious fire tears through Better Choice Gifts and Smoke Shop at Chapel St, Prahran
Police are investigating a blaze that caused extensive damage to a smoke shop in Melbourne’s southeast in what appears to be the latest attack in Melbourne’s raging tobacco wars.
9th January 2025
AU Firebombing #213, Springvale, Victoria - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Police have warned shop landlords as they investigate two more arsons on Melbourne tobacco stores.
Insurance threat issued to landlords amid tobacco war.
5th December 2024
AU Firebombing Adjustment #212, Queensland - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Due to the rampant nature and escalation of the tobacco and vape wars fires some incidents may not of been reported or previously missed. A recent QLD article upgraded the information.
31st December 2024
AU Firebombing #206 Eagleby, Queensland - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Another tobacconist has been targeted in an early-morning arson attack, this time in the Logan suburb of Eagleby.
Police were called to the business on River Hills Road about 3.30am on Tuesday after reports two men in dark clothing were trying to break in.
Failing to gain entry at either the back or front, the pair allegedly set fire to items at the front of the store.
30th December 2024
AU Firebombing #205 Melton, Victoria - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Police are hunting an arsonist after a firebombing attack on a shop in Melton this morning. The blaze broke out at a business on High St inside a shooping centre around 3am. Nobody was injured in the fire.
26th December 2024
AU Firebombing #204 Coolaroo, Victoria - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
A large fire broke out in Cooloroo, Melbourne, Australia this morning.
A fire broke out at the Nargile Cafe located at Pascoe Vale Road, Reservoir Drive, Coolaroo.
Firefighters brought the fire under control before it spread to other businesses.
26th December 2024
AU Firebombing #203 Fortitude Valley, Queensland- Link to news article Alive Advocacy
A manhunt is underway after an alleged firebombing and assault at a Brisbane tobacco store on Thursday morning.
Police allege about 3:30am a man entered a business on Wickham Street in Fortitude Valley and shortly after an "altercation occurred".
24th December 2024
AU Firebombing #202 Flemington, Victoria - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Firebugs have targeted two businesses early on Christmas Eve in what appears to be yet another attack in Melbourne’s ongoing tobacco wars.
24th December 2024
AU Firebombing #201 Norlane, Victoria - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Police are investigating a suspicious fire which engulfed a tobacco shop in Norlane on Tuesday morning.
12th December 2024
AU Firebombing #200 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
A vehicle used in the ram raid incident on Thursday Morning was set alight in an underpass causing structual damage that has caused Darwina Tce to remain closed for the foreseeable future!
5th December 2024
AU Firebombing #199 Craigieburn, Victoria - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Fire crews have rushed to douse a blaze at a makeshift Craigieburn tobacco shop after yet another apparent arson attack in Melbourne’s raging tobacco wars.
5th December 2024
AU Firebombing #198 Craigieburn, Victoria - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Fire crews have rushed to douse a blaze at a makeshift Craigieburn tobacco shop after yet another apparent arson attack in Melbourne’s raging tobacco wars.
5th December 2024
AU Firebombing #197 Rochester, Victoria - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Central Victorian tobacco store destroyed by fire in latest blow to flood-ravaged Rochester
A police taskforce targeting the illicit tobacco trade is investigating a fire that destroyed a shop.
A vehicle reversed into the shopfront on Mackay Street at about 5:20am on Thursday and two men allegedly lit a fire inside before driving away.
No-one was injured but the store was gutted and the barber shop next door was significantly damaged.
30th November 2024
AU Firebombing #196 Preston, Victoria - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
A Preston tobacco shop has been torched - the latest in a string of businesses to fall victim to Melbourne's turf war.
1st December 2024
AU Firebombing #195 Pascoe Vale, Victoria - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Another tobacco shop has been completely destroyed in a blaze in Melbourne’s north, around 4:30am
29th November 2024
AU Firebombing #194 - Correction to number of incidents - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
ABC Australia has reported the number of events to be in excess of 190, the count now stands at 194.
29th November 2024
The NNA Call out UK Labour's "All-out offensive on vaping"
The NNA (New Nicotine Alliance) have published a press release calling out the harsh new laws on vaping which will be imposed by the UK Labour Government. It also has input from Clive Bates.
Read the press release here: https://nnalliance.org/nnanews/news/406-media-release-labours-all-out-assault-on-vaping-will-cause-unnecessary-and-avoidable-deaths-and-disease
22nd November 2024
AU Firebombing #154 Pooraka, Adelaide - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Just before 1.15am on Friday, police and fire crews were called to DokhKan Market on Bridge Rd, Pooraka, to reports of a fire at a business.
Images of the tobacconist business show a burnt out shop front and a mattress, believed to be used as fuel for the fire.
21st November 2024
AU Firebombing #153 Caroline Springs, Melbourne - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
A car was driven into the Fayrouz Cafe on Caroline Springs Boulevard before it was set alight just after 3am.
The cafe suffered extensive damage in the blaze but a dozen apartments above the burnt-out cafe and vehicle appeared to have avoided serious damage.
21st November 2024
AU Firebombing #152 Coolaroo, Melbourne - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
The Kasr Sweets cafe on Somerton Rd in Coolaroo was rammed by a vehicle and partially set alight about 1.10am.
The “Lebanese Sweets & Cafe”, situated in the Roxburgh Plaza, remained cordoned off on Thursday morning.
“Emergency services were called to Somerton Road, Coolaroo about 1.10am after reports a car had been driven into a confectionery store and a fire occurred,” police said in a statement.
21st November 2024
AU Firebombing #149, #150, #151 South Yarra, Melbourne - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
+ Sin City Dandenong June 24
+ Skamma Gym July 9
A popular South Yarra nightclub was set alight amid “inflamed” underworld tensions fuelled by a growing alliance between major players overseas.
It is understood that three brazen arsonists caught on camera torching the Lux nightclub on Chapel St.
15th November 2024
GSTHR (Global State Of Tobacco Harm Reduction) 2024 Situation Report Published
The GSTHR have published a report on the situation regarding THR (Tobacco Harm Reduction) globally. You can download the full report here: https://gsthr.org/resources/thr-reports/the-global-state-of-tobacco-harm-reduction-2024-a-situation-report/
Also you can read the related press release at Ecigclick : https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/gsthr-2024-situation-report/
14th November 2024
AU Firebombing #148 Mt Isa, Queensland - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Police have charged a 22-year-old Heathwood man following an investigation into arson attacks on tobacco and vape retail outlets in Queensland.
It will be alleged that at approximately 2:20am on August 14, multiple people broke into a shop in the Mount Isa CBD and doused the building with flammable liquid before setting it on fire.
11th November 2024
AU Firebombing #146 Pascoe Vale South, Victoria - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
A convenience store has been rammed by a car and set alight in Pascoe Vale South in the early hours of Monday.
The blaze spread to a neighbouring store and a second vehicle parked on the street.
10th November 2024
AU Firebombing #147 Thomson, Geelong, Victoria - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
The owner of a Thomson store mistakenly firebombed twice has revealed the mental toll of the attacks, while other business owners have been left “scared”.
Earlier firebombing #144 on 8/11/24 Link to news article
9th November 2024
AU Firebombing #145 Norlane, North Geelong, Victoria - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
A Norlane tobacco shop has been set alight again, just six days later after it was targeted by criminals in a ram raid.
Emergency services were called to the shop on Donnybrook Road following reports of the fire about 1.40am on Saturday morning.
8th November 2024
AU Firebombing #144 Geelong, Victoria - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
A Thomson convenience store has gone up in flames in a suspicious blaze potentially linked to the state’s tobacco wars.
Fire crews were called to Lucky 7 on Boundary Rd just before 3am after multiple residents called emergency services.
6th November 2024
AU Firebombing #141 West End, Brisbane - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Firebombing hits a shop in West End in Brisbane at around 3am today.
Fears are the tobacco wars are now set to continue at a scale that has only been seen in Victoria.
AU Firebombing #142 Meadow Heights, Melbourne - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Two people fled their burning home in Melbourne’s north early on Wednesday morning after a car rammed into an adjoining shop and was set alight.
Neighbours scrambled to wake the man and woman after a Meadow Heights milk bar was rammed with a ute and torched shortly before 1am.
AU Firebombing #143 Campbellfield, Melbourne - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
A restaurant in Campbellfield was set ablaze for the second time this year, which is believed to be connected to this extreme action taken by warring gangs for tobacco and vape turf supremacy, just hours after a firebombing in Meadow Heights.
5th November 2024
The UK Government today has introduced the UK Tobacco & Vapes Bill 2024.
Ecigclick examine how this new version of the bill will impact vapers and various responses from consumer organisations, advocates and the vape industry. https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/uk-tobacco-vapes-bill-2024-introduced/
Read more on the Gov.uk website here https://www.gov.uk/government/news/smoking-ban-introduced-to-protect-children-and-most-vulnerable
2nd November 2024
AU Firebombing #140 Norlane, Geelong - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
A crime scene has been established after a car smashed into a shop and was set on fire in a suspicious Norlane blaze early on Saturday.
1st November 2024
AU Firebombing #139 Campbellfield - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Arsonists have torched yet another tobacco shop in a ram raid in the early hours of Friday morning.
Attackers drove a car through the front of a store in Campbellfield before setting the vehicle alight.
30th October 2024
UK Government Announce Extortionate New Vape Tax
Today in their Autumn budget the UK Government have announced their plans for a vape tax on e-liquid. You can read the full budget statement here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/autumn-budget-2024
The rate will be £2.20 per 10ml of e-liquid. As you can see below we have created a graphic to demonstrate the impact on vapers.
Read more here - including public and industry / advocate responses: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/uk-government-announce-extortionate-vape-tax/
27th October 2024
AU Firebombing #138 Mickleham - Link to news article Alive Advocacy
Fire rips through Melbourne convenience store after ram raid
Police are investigating a fire at a convenience store in Melbourne after a car rammed through it
24th October 2024
UK Disposable Vape Ban Confirmed – Plus Industry, Advocate & Public Responses
Sadly it appears that the UK disposable vape ban has been confirmed. You can read the government press release here.
Ecigclick have summarised the ban plus included opinions from the industry, advocates and the public: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/uk-disposable-vape-ban-confirmed/
16th October 2024
We Vape Poll Shows Public Dissatisfaction With UK Vaping Policy
A recent We Vape poll shows a quarter of UK Labour voters were less likely to vote for the party again over the Tobacco and Vapes Bill. It also shows 67% of all vapers feel stigmatised in UK society. https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/we-vape-poll-shows-public-dissatisfaction-with-uk-vaping-policy/
Illegal Vapes Ripe In Manchester – We Vape Investigation
A recent We Vape investigation into illegal vapes being sold across the Manchester constituencies of Angela Rayner and Andrew Gwynne MP has been released. https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/illegal-vapes-ripe-in-manchester-we-vape-investigation/
15th October 2024
Cancer Research UK Has Concerns About UK Disposable Vape Ban
Cancer Research UK has published a report on their concerns about the upcoming UK disposable vape ban.
You can read the full report here – or read the summary of the main points in this Ecigclick article: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/cancer-research-uk-has-concerns-about-uk-disposable-vape-ban/
13th October 2024
Why Aren’t We Celebrating Decline In Kids Smoking / Vaping In The US?
An article has been published in AJPH (American Journal of Public Health) discussing recent trends in youth smoking. And the findings point to the fact that there is a decline in kids smoking / vaping in the US. Why aren’t we celebrating?
You can read the article here : https://ajph.aphapublications.org/doi/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307841 or read the summary by Ecigclick here : https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/article-us-kids-no-longer-smoke-cigarettes/
17th August 2024
ASH UK Vaping Data Released
Released this week, the ASH UK Vaping Data figures showing that nearly 3 million people in Britain have quit smoking by vaping in the last 5 years. Which is incredible! You can read the press release here and the full fact sheet here.
Ecigclick have summarised the main points here: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/ash-uk-vaping-data-released/
10th August 2024
New Zealand Is Set To Become "SmokeFree"
Following on from the success of Sweden becoming smoke free, New Zealand is next!
Sadly in New Zealand, there is quite a lot of restriction on vaping products and more to come in future. Could this jeopardise NZ success so far?
Find out more including comments from Marewa Glover and the WVA here: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/new-zealand-about-to-be-smoke-free/
Further Evidence That Vaping Helps People Stop Smoking
A new study published on August 1st 2024 looked for evidence that vaping helps people stop smoking.
The study is titled “E-cigarette Characteristics and Cigarette Cessation Among Adults Who Use E-cigarettes” and you can find it here: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2821816
For a brief summary you can read the Ecigclick article here: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/evidence-that-vaping-helps-people-stop-smoking/
18th July 2024
UK King's Speech Revives the Tobacco & Vapes Bill
This sets out the framework of legislation which the government intend to enact in the upcoming parliament.
It is part of the State Opening of Parliament – which is the beginning of a new year (or session) in UK government.
The Speech is written by the government and delivered by the head of state.
The reason the speech was important for vapers is the fact that it brought up the Tobacco and Vapes Bill proposed by the previous Conservative Government.
Watch the full speech here: https://youtu.be/P71ENZregX0 or read the transcript here: https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/the-kings-speech-2024
More details from Ecigclick here: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/vaping-implications-of-the-uk-kings-speech-responses/
14th July 2024
Secondhand Nicotine Exposure In Children 83% Lower In Vaping Compared To Smoking
A new study has been published examining the secondhand absorption of nicotine from tobacco smoke versus e-cigarettes / vapes.
You can read the full study here or read the summary in Ecigclick here: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/secondhand-nicotine-exposure-in-children-83-lower-in-vaping-compared-to-smoking/
12th July 2024
Safer Nicotine Wiki founder Richard Pruen talks Mental Health & Smoking Cessation
In an excellent article in Filter magazine, the founder of Safer Nicotine Wiki – Richard Pruen – discussed smoking cessation and mental health with Kiran Sidhu an excellent THR journalist.
It is an extremely though provoking article and includes studies of how mental health can impact smoking rates and nicotine requirements.
Ecigclick have summarised this here: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/richard-pruen-kiran-sidhu-discuss-mental-health-smoking-cessation/
NNA Urges New Health Secretary To Consider Adults In Vaping Policy
The NNA (New Nicotine Alliance) have written a letter to Wes Streeting on the new UK government’s approach to smoking and vaping. They are urging parliament to consider positive results of safer nicotine alternatives in adults and how the benefits can be capitalised on.
You can view the full letter here or Ecigclick have written an article about it here: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/nna-urges-new-health-secretary-to-consider-adults-in-vaping-policy/
3rd July 2024
UKVIA poll shows little confidence that politicians can deliver a smokefree Britain
There is very little faith that the big three political parties can secure a smokefree Britain, according to a poll carried out by the UK Vaping Industry Association.
Read more here: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/ukvia-survey-shows-no-faith-in-uk-government-for-smokefree-britain/
"Let's Talk E-cigarettes" June 2024 Podcast
This series of Podcasts has been created by Dr Jamie Hartmann-Boyce and Dr Nicola Lindson of the University of Oxford. Funding from Cancer Research UK has aided the production of these.
They bring together latest research and also have invited guests.
This episode includes the amazing Louise Ross.
More info here: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/lets-talk-e-cigarettes-june-2024-podcast-now-available/
30th June 2024
Updates From GFN 2024
Ecigclick have covered some of the main points raised at this years GFN 2024.
Oh and the wonderful Colin Mendelsohn won the Michael Russell award!
Read more...
- https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/gfn-discusses-uk-stance-on-vaping-plus-dr-colin-mendelsohn-wins-the-michael-russell-award/
- https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/gfn-2024-round-up-who-said-what/
Twitter / X Community Notes - Fighting THR Misinformation!
Lately Twitter / X community notes have been fighting back against misinformation about vaping and THR (Tobacco Harm Reduction).
It is such a wonderful thing to see – that the public are able to counteract blatant lies from large organisations!
It seems the W.H.O. are collecting them!
Read more here: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/twitter-x-community-notes-fighting-misinformation/
Study Investigates Which Is More Effective For Quitting Smoking - Vaping Vs Champix / Chantix
You can read the study here: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2820176?guestAccessKey=b7e7ddd0-bb9a-4a9d-8cd0-3fc18dd37603
Ecigclick have summarised the study here: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/which-is-better-for-quitting-smoking-champix-or-vaping/
UK General Election 2024 - Political Parties Vaping Policies
Ecigclick have investigated the policies of the main UK political parties in regard to harm reduction and vaping: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/uk-political-parties-stance-on-vaping-general-election-2024/
Potential EU Vape Flavour Ban?
This has come about due to the EU revising the EUTPD (European Tobacco Products Directive). In the UK we have our own TPD which limits nicotine strengths and tank / bottle sizes.
On the 21st June 2024, a proposed meeting of the EU health ministers was to be held and the Danish Health Minister added proposals to the agenda.
Read more here: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/potential-eu-flavour-ban/
What Nicotine E-liquid Strengths Are Used In The UK?
As the UK government has proposed to add a tax to e-liquids based on nicotine strength this study examined what the most popular strengths were for adult vapers.
A lot of great points were made about how this will impact vapers, smokers and ex-smokers and could cause relapsing or not quitting at all.
You can read the full paper here: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/add.16576
Summarised by Ecigclick here: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/what-nicotine-e-liquid-strengths-do-we-use-in-the-uk/
11th June 2024
June Is Nicotine Pouch Awareness Month – Considerate Pouchers
From this year forward Considerate Pouchers will mark June as “Pouch Awareness Month” to raise awareness of this effective harm-reduction tool. https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/june-is-nicotine-pouch-awareness-month-considerate-pouchers/
UKVIA Has Published “10 Vaping Truths” Factsheet!
To help respond to the current misinformation epidemic the UKVIA has published “10 vaping truths” factsheet. https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/ukvia-has-published-10-vaping-truths-factsheet/
Unfortunately as was seen in a recent worldwide survey, there are huge public misperceptions about the danger of vaping versus smoking.
You can download the full factsheet here.
It is a one page format with the 10 most important facts about vaping presented clearly with links to verification data.
IBVTA Responsible Vaping Manifesto Launched!
Yes it is general election “fever” in the UK and all parties are vying for your vote!
One issue that unites vapers is the hope whichever political party are in power in July will be sympathetic to vaping.
The IBVTA (Independent British Vape Trade Association) are calling all parties to work collaboratively to help design any proposed vaping policy, law or regulation. https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/ibvta-responsible-vaping-manifesto-launched/
You can download a copy of IBVTA Responsible Vaping Manifesto here.
29th May 2024
UK Tobacco & Vapes Bill Ditched (for now!)
Due to the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announcing a general election on July 4th it means some of the proposed legislation has had to be pushed aside.
The parliament as it stands will be dissolved as of 24th May 2024. Any bills which could not be completed before this are therefore cast aside.
It appears the Tobacco and Vapes bill is one that will not be put through the full process in time and will have to be discarded.
More info here https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/uk-tobacco-vapes-bill-ditched/
World Misperceptions of Vaping V Smoking
A new global survey has highlighted the world misperception regarding vaping v smoking risks.
The survey was conducted by Ipsos and We Are Innovation and 27,000 people who smoke in 28 countries participated.
Ecigclick reported on it here https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/world-misperception-regarding-vaping-v-smoking-risks/
You can visit the introduction page here and view the full findings in PDF format here.
2024 ASH Survey on Vaping
ASH have collected this data since 2013 so it provides a great insight into the vaping and smoking habits of the UK. https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/2024-ash-uk-survey-on-vaping-results/
The survey in question is the ASH Smokefree survey and there are 2 categories – adults and youth.
You can view the presentation created for the E-cig Summit (US) held on 14th May 2024 here.
Also the associated press release from ASH can be found here.
World Vape Day 30th May
Time for World Vape Day 2024 – this year it is to be held on 30th May! https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/world-vape-day-2024-30th-may/
This day is to celebrate harm reduction efforts and falls just one day before the “World No Tobacco Day” created by WHO (World Health Organisation).
12th April 2024
NO VAPE TAX Campaign Launch!
The No Vape Tax campaign has been launched today! You can visit it here https://novapetax.uk/.
It is a joint collaboration between the NNA (New Nicotine Alliance) and Vapers.org.uk.
The No Vape Tax website tells you various ways you can get your voice heard.
The site guides you through how to respond to the public consultation, or you can send your story to be displayed on the homepage.
Plus it suggests emailing your own MP with a link to help you find out who to write to.
Please get involved as this will be a disaster for vapers and those using vaping to stop smoking. Higher nicotine e-liquids will be taxed the heaviest and these are what most people will need to help quit smoking. Also it is another blow to those suffering with the cost of living.
20th March 2024
UK Tobacco & Vapes Bill 2024
Today the UK Government published their Tobacco & Vapes bill 2024 and it is not great news for vapers.
Ecigclick have covered the contents and impacts for vapers here: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/uk-tobacco-vapes-bill-2024-what-it-means-for-vapers/
You can read the bill in full here: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/tobacco-and-vapes-bill-2024.
Also there is a summary with regard to vaping here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/tobacco-and-vapes-bill-factsheets.
Responses have so far come in from...
- The WVA here: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/wva-reaction-to-the-uk-tobacco-vapes-bill/
- IBVTA here: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/ibvta-reaction-to-the-uk-tobacco-vapes-bill/
- Clive Bates here: https://clivebates.com/uk-policy-on-tobacco-and-vaping-a-muddle-and-a-mess/
10th March 2024
UK Vaping Products Duty Public Consultation Launched
The UK government are to introduce a vape tax – otherwise known as the “Vaping Products Duty“ in 2026. More here on Ecigclick : https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/uk-vaping-products-duty-consultation/
A public consultation has been launched which will gather views on the tax proposals and their structure.
I urge all UK vapers and those in the vape industry – especially retailers – to take part and help amend this extortionate policy to something more suitable.
As a principle the addition of tax is understandable. But I think the level of taxation is far too heavy and – to put it mildly – it is greedy.
For instance in the image you can see examples of how a 10ml bottle of 20mg nicotine strength e-liquid which currently retails for £3.99 will increase to £6.99 once the tax is applied. Also a 100ml bottle of nicotine free (shortfill) e-liquid which is currently £9.99 will increase to double the price at £19.99 with the new tax (£1 per 10ml). It is shocking.
How To Take Part
You can view the summary document here https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65e80ba108eef600115a5621/Vaping_Products_Duty_Consultation.pdf, it covers the background of the proposals and lists the questions which will be included in the consultation.
When responding ask yourself these questions…
- Will this put you off vaping and make you return to smoking?
- Will you buy e-liquids from the Black Market (i.e. no tax applied?)
- If you need high nicotine strengths will you have to cut down to a lower strength thus risking your attempt to stay away from tobacco?
- If you are considering switching from tobacco to vaping – is this increase in price less of an incentive to switch?
- Do you agree with the tax? If so would a more reasonable rate (i.e. £1 per bottle regardless of strength or volume) be acceptable?
- Will this system stop underage vapers?
- Will this be damaging to your business (retailers)?
- How much will it cost you to implement the new tax (retailers), i.e. altering displays, repricing stock, amending POS systems?
To send your response download the response form in Word format here https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65eb1e4a3649a2c772ed63a3/Consultation_response_template.docx.
Then email the completed form to vapingproductsduty@hmrc.gov.uk with “Vaping Products Duty consultation response” as the subject.
If you want to comment further or discuss topics in more depth, written submissions are also accepted.
Make sure to respond by the 29th May 2024.
6th March 2024
UK Vaping Products Levy (vape tax) announced
Unfortunately today in his Spring Budget announcement, the Chancellor has stated that vaping products will be subject to tax.
This will apply to e-liquids and the rate will depend on the nicotine strength.
We have covered this, with an explanation of how and when this tax will take place, plus various reactions from the vaping industry and advocates.
We will try to keep this up to date as new reactions are published.
https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/uk-to-tax-vaping-products-industry-reactions/
5th March 2024
UK Proposing A Vape Tax?
Is there a new "Vape Tax" on the horizon for the UK? We await the Spring Budget announcement due Wednesday 6th March 2024.
In the meantime here is what we know so far, including responses from UKVIA, NNA, WVA & WeVape : https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/possible-uk-vape-tax-industry-responses/
29th January 2024
UK Government bans disposable vapes
The UK Government today announces a ban on disposable vapes, restrictions on packaging & flavours, further enforcement action and a generational ban on buying tobacco. All covered here in Ecigclick: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/uk-government-bans-disposable-vapes/
You can read the full UK Government press release here https://www.gov.uk/government/news/disposable-vapes-banned-to-protect-childrens-health
So far the UKVIA ( https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/ukvia-response-to-uk-disposable-vape-ban/ ) and WVA ( https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/wva-response-to-uk-disposable-vape-ban-press-release/ ) have published their responses.
Here is the response from the NNA (New Nicotine Alliance) https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/nna-response-to-uk-disposable-vape-ban/
The government has also published the consultation outcome https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/creating-a-smokefree-generation-and-tackling-youth-vaping
10th November 2023
COP10 FCTC Postponed Until 2024!
Due to unrest in Panama and the fact there was nobody to organise the conference, the COP10 FCTC scheduled for 20-25th November has been postponed until 2024! More here in Ecigclick - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/cop10-fctc-postponed-until-2024
7th November 2023
Ecigclick Chats To Colin Mendelsohn
Ecigclick chats to another passionate THR Superstar - Colin Mendelsohn!! Read more here - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/colin-mendelsohn-chats-to-ecigclick/
4th November 2023
Ecigclick Chats To Kim Skip Murray
Ecigclick highlights another THR Superstar - Kim Skip Murray - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/kim-skip-murray-chats-to-ecigclick/
Ecigclick Chats To Kurt Yeo
In another THR Superstar interview we throw the spotlight on Kurt Yeo from Vaping Saved My Life - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/kurt-yeo-chats-to-ecigclick/
How To Spot A Dodgy Vape
Following on from a Tweet by Lincolnshire Trading Standards, Ecigclick have created a guide on how to spot illegal and counterfeit vapes - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/how-to-spot-a-dodgy-vape
22nd October 2023
Ecigclick Chats To Richard Pruen - Main Man Behind Safer Nicotine Wiki
Read all about the man behind the screens who keeps the wiki running, find out if he vapes and his opinions on THR worldwide - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/richard-pruen-talks-to-ecigclick/
COPWATCH Find Sneaky Hidden Files For COP10 Delegates
The group COPWATCH have come across some files for COP10 FCTC delegates which were not published with the rest of the agenda items. They cover Disposable Vapes and Nicotine Pouches and are apparently not very erm... scientific...
Read about this on Ecigclick plus links to the files - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/copwatch-more-misinformation-from-who-prior-to-cop10/
And the COPWATCH article - https://copwatch.info/the-who-publishes-anonymously-written-papers-designed-to-gaslight-parties-at-cop10
Respect Vapers Ireland Call To Action
A new public consultation on vaping is due to be launched on 7th November 2023 by the Irish Government. Please urge people to get involved when it is live.
More here on Ecigclick - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/respect-vapers-raise-your-voice-in-the-ireland-vaping-consultation/
WVA Call For UK Public To "Save Flavours, Save Disposables"
In response to the UK Smoking and Vaping public consultation, the WVA are asking people to get involved and take part in the survey.
More here on Ecigclick - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/wva-uk-save-flavours-save-disposables/
Visit the WVA campaign page here - https://worldvapersalliance.com/uk-save-flavours-save-disposables/
Take part in the consultation here before the 6th December 2023 - https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/creating-a-smokefree-generation-and-tackling-youth-vaping
Guide to the consultation and how to get involved - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/uk-government-smoking-vaping-consultation/
UKVIA Launch Sustainable Vaping Week
To try and counteract the waste from vapes, especially disposables, the UKVIA have created a sustainable vaping week, plus their own "Recycle Vapes" information hub.
More here on Ecigclick - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/ukvia-sustainable-vaping-week-kicks-off/
Sustainable vaping week info - https://recycle-vapes.co.uk/sustainable-vaping-week/
Recycle Vapes information hub for vapers and industry - https://recycle-vapes.co.uk/
13th October 2023
The UK Government Consultation On Smoking & Vaping 2023
The UK Government has published a public consultation on Smoking & Vaping to help shape future regulation.
It is important that all safer nicotine users take part and tell their own story. Their own experience is evidence.
Ecigclick have a summary here and a guide to participation - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/uk-government-smoking-vaping-consultation/
Documents on the Gov website cover the consultation and explain the questions and topics...
- https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-sets-out-next-steps-to-create-smokefree-generation
- https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/creating-a-smokefree-generation-and-tackling-youth-vaping/creating-a-smokefree-generation-and-tackling-youth-vaping-your-views
You can partake in the consultation here - https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/creating-a-smokefree-generation-and-tackling-youth-vaping
UKVIA has published a statement in response - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/ukvia-response-to-uk-government-smoking-vaping-consultation/
IBVTA have also published their response - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/ibvta-responds-to-uk-government-smoking-vaping-consultation/
10th October 2023
The UK Government to stand up for vaping at COP10?
An article in The Sun - states that the UK will fight for vaping at COP10 and will urge other countries to follow their example - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/uk-to-stand-up-for-vaping-at-cop10/
UKVIA To Launch Vape Recycling Information Hub plus "Sustainable Vaping Week" from 16th October
More info here at Ecigclick - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/ukvia-to-launch-vape-recycling-information-hub/
Or read the UKVIA press release - https://www.ukvia.co.uk/ukvia-to-launch-new-vape-recycling-information-hub-and-sustainable-vaping-week/
EU Proposing To Ban Nicotine Pouches?
WVA Press Release - "A leaked report from the European Commission proposing to ban nicotine pouches questions EU smoke-free goals"
4th October 2023
Rishi Sunak cracks down on Smoking & Youth Vaping
Today the UK government announced plans to reduce tobacco smoking and youth vaping.
Summarised here on Ecigclick - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/rishi-cracks-down-on-uk-smoking-youth-vaping/
View the whole government paper here - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/stopping-the-start-our-new-plan-to-create-a-smokefree-generation
Various organisations have published responses...
IBVTA – IBVTA welcomes tobacco phase out but highlights role of vapes as smoking cessation tool.
WVA (World Vapers’ Alliance) – Sunak’s cigarette ban misses the point on reducing smoking rates.
London Tobacco Alliance – London Tobacco Alliance Response To Rishi Sunak’s Announcement On Smoking.
ASH – APPG Smoking & Health and ASH Welcome Rishi Sunak’s Announcement On Smoking.
Science Media Centre – Expert Reaction To Rishi Sunak’s Announcement On Smoking.
29th September 2023
The Case For Flavours in THR?
Dr Konstantinos Farsalinos has updated his paper on "The case for flavours in tobacco harm reduction, to save lives" - https://media.thr.net/strapi/34d52398d9056adece15e8bda5172870.pdf?updated_at=2023-08-29T12:28:33.423Z
Restricting Vape Flavours Results In Increased Cigarette Sales
A new study - https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4586701
22nd September 2023
Ireland Disposable Vape Ban?
It is looking very likely there will be a ban on disposable vapes on the way in Ireland soon, on top of additional regulations.
More here at Ecigclick - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/ireland-disposable-vape-ban-is-likely/
Also the WVA have published a press release in response - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/wva-response-to-ireland-tightening-vaping-regulations/
15th September 2023
Global Vape Alliance Launched
A new Global Vape Alliance has been launched.
"The Global Vape Alliance for the first time brings together major international vaping bodies including the Electronic Cigarette Industry Committee of the China Electronics Chamber of Commerce (ECCC), the US Vapor Technology Association (VTA), the “UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA)” and the Independent European Vape Alliance (IEVA)."
Above quoted from the Press release from UKVIA - https://www.ukvia.co.uk/announcement-new-global-vape-alliance-unveiled/
Global Vape Alliance website - https://globalvapealliance.com/
A summary here from Ecigclick - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/global-vape-alliance/
12th September 2023
Is there a UK disposable vape ban on the horizon?
Read more on Ecigclick - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/is-a-uk-disposable-vape-ban-on-the-horizon/
Includes responses from the WVA, NNA, UKVIA, IEA , IBVTA .
Cochrane compares different methods of Cigarette Cessation
Spoiler - vaping comes out as the most effective!!
Summary here - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/cochrane-are-e-cigs-the-most-effective-way-to-quit-smoking/
1st September 2023
UKVIA Ends Tobacco Company Membership
In a press release today the UKVIA (UK Vaping Industry Association) announced they would no longer accept large tobacco companies as members.
Read the press release here on ecigclick https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/ukvia-ends-tobacco-company-membership/
Or the UKVIA website https://www.ukvia.co.uk/media-statement-regarding-the-departure-of-tobacco-companies-from-the-ukvia/
17th August 2023
How Come Sweden Is Almost Smoke Free?
Smoke Free Sweden have issued a new report on how they are close to the Smoke free goal of 5% or less smoking rate - an interesting read and they say...
"This follow-up report is a call to the WHO and global public health to study the harm reduction strategies so successfully employed by Sweden"
Read the PDF report here https://smokefreesweden.org/wp-content/themes/smokefreesweden/assets/pdf/reports/Report_SAVING%20LIVES%20LIKE%20SWEDEN.pdf
10th August 2023
New Study - Smokers would appreciate Health Care Interventions to help them transition to vaping
Ecigclick have reported on the new study showing how smokers / vapers would react to different health care interventions to aid them to quit / stay away from smoking - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/would-uk-smokers-welcome-nhs-vaping-support/
You can also view the study here https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/17579139231185481
9th August 2023
New Study - Smokers Switching To Vapes Could Save NHS More Than £500m A Year
A new study has been published from the Brunel University London.
Ecigclick have covered it here... https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/switching-to-vapes-could-save-nhs-more-than-500m-a-year/
The article from the Brunel website is here https://www.brunel.ac.uk/news-and-events/news/articles/NHS-would-save-more-than-500m-a-year-if-half-of-England's-adult-smokers-vaped-instead
The full study is online - but behind a paywall https://www.magonlinelibrary.com/doi/epub/10.12968/bjhc.2023.0046
3rd August 2023
ASH UK - E-cigarette Use In Great Britain 2023 Results
ASH UK have published the results of their e-cigarette use in Great Britain survey - read the full results here https://ash.org.uk/uploads/Use-of-e-cigarettes-among-adults-in-Great-Britain-2023.pdf
Also you can read their press release here https://ash.org.uk/media-centre/news/press-releases/four-in-ten-smokers-wrongly-believe-that-vaping-is-as-or-more-harmful-as-smoking
Sadly 4 in 10 smokers are scared of vaping.
Ecigclick have written an article summarising the main points here https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/4-in-10-smokers-wrongly-fear-vaping-ash-e-cigarette-use-in-gb-2023-survey-results/
Various responses have already been published.
The IBVTA have published a press release - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/ibvta-statement-on-ash-yougov-e-cigarette-use-in-gb-2023-survey/
Various health professionals have made excellent responses - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/expert-reaction-to-ash-e-cigarette-use-in-gb-2023-survey/
The NNA have also responded https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/nna-responds-to-the-ash-vaping-results/
To help counteract the negative perception of vaping, ASH UK have produced an great "Mythbusting" article on all the common myths - https://ash.org.uk/uploads/Addressing-common-myths-about-vaping-ASH-brief.pdf
I know ASH UK policies are not always popular with vapers but at least they see vaping for the benefit of accelerating the decrease in smoking rate. Unlike some of their counterparts – cough – ASH Scotland…ASH USA
They are generally sympathetic to vaping and see it as an important tool to reduce smoking in the UK and in a recent Health and Social Care committee - the Chief Exec of ASH UK - Deborah Arnott - was one of the few actually talking sense and sticking up for vaping in the horrific first panel. https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/health-social-care-youth-vaping/
If you want to see more responses by various organisations / experts - I have summarised them here in our Article - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/updates-to-health-social-care-committee-on-youth-vaping/
Other Vape News this week...
Vapes performed better than NRT in helping pregnant smokers quit - new study - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/vapes-more-effective-than-nrt-patches-for-pregnant-smokers/
The UK branch of Cochrane is to close - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/cochrane-uk-to-close/
The WVA have responded to the latest dollop of misinformation oozing from the WHO - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/wva-rebuffs-who-press-release/
31st July 2023
Crazy News Headlines on Vaping!
Some absolutely crazy articles started appearing in the UK media regarding the horrific disease - "Vape Tongue" - total lies - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/hilarious-vape-tongue-articles/
A great study looked into ways to help smokers transition to vaping, overcoming obstacles including access, advice and the negative perception - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/amazing-study-on-helping-smokers-transition-to-vaping/
ASH UK published their survey results on the opinion of Tobacco and Vaping control in the UK - https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/ash-tobacco-vaping-control-survey-results-2023/