BARNSLEY children will be better protected from the risks of vaping as part of government proposals to introduce new rules for retailers selling tobacco, vapes and nicotine products.
For the first time, shops will need a licence to sell these products - closing a major gap in the law, according to ministers.
Currently, any business can sell tobacco or vapes without one and health bosses say his has allowed rogue traders to sell illicit products on the high street, often targeted at children with cheap, colourful vapes in shops that sell sweets and toys.
Illegal vapes’ prominence has climbed dramatically in Barnsley, leading to several notable prosecutions.
The proposed new licensing scheme will root out rogue operators, give enforcement officers stronger powers to shut them down and protect legitimate retailers.
Health Minister Stephen Kinnock said: “We aim to close a major gap in the law, making it necessary for shops to hold a licence to sell tobacco, vapes and nicotine products.
“Our new proposals will better protect children by rooting out the rogue retailers blighting our high streets and help adults know which shops are selling legitimate products.
“We want expert views on how we can develop the strongest possible regulations to protect our children as part of our Plan For Change, while ensuring adult smokers can still use vapes to quit smoking.”
A Freedom of Information request documents the rise in illegal vape use in Barnsley which, according to public health teams, contain higher levels of nicotine whilst being considerably cheaper to buy.
The Chronicle can reveal no data was recorded by Barnsley Council for seized vapes in 2020 or 2021, while just 13 were confiscated in 2022.
However, 2023 register 7,471 seized items, while last year enforcement officers took 4,958 from illicit traders, making a total of 12,442 - a staggering increase of 57,369 per cent in just two years.
It’s estimated that the street value of the vapes surpasses the £150,000 mark.
Barnsley Council’s public health boss, Anna Hartley, described illegal vape usage as ‘concerning’.
“All forms of nicotine are highly addictive and illegal vapes have higher-than-normal amounts,” she added.
“It’s not hard to see why vaping has grown in prominence
“They’re cheaper and they’re becoming more available.
“It’s important that children in particular are protected from being exposed.”
A new Tobacco and Vapes Bill passed its first two hurdles comfortably last year, with Barnsley North’s Dan Jarvis, Barnsley South’s Stephanie Peacock and Penistone and Stocksbridge’s Marie Tidball all voting in favour of proposed restrictions.
Subject to consultation, the sale of vape flavours which appeal to children - such as bubble gum, gummy bear and cotton candy - could be outlawed alongside restrictions on packaging that’s designed to appeal to young people.
It will bring in a total ban on vape advertising and sponsorship which will include displays that will likely be seen by children and young people such as on buses, in cinemas and in shop windows, bringing this in line with current tobacco restrictions.
Coun Wendy Cain, cabinet spokesperson for public health and communities, said the council’s committed to clamping down on sellers who flout regulations.
“We’ll continue to take action against those who sell illicit products across our borough.
/ “We’re committed to making smoking invisible in Barnsley - taking positive action to reduce the uptake of products containing nicotine and vapes amongst our young people, whilst increasing attempts to give up, is a key priority in our drive to inspire a smoke-free generation.”
