Overview

• For the first time, retailers would need a licence to sell tobacco, vapes and nicotine products, which ministers say will curb illicit sales targeting children.
• Enforcement would include unlimited court fines and fixed penalties of £2,500 for trading without a licence, with courts in Northern Ireland able to impose fines up to £5,000.
• The government’s call for evidence seeks views on ingredients, safe nicotine strengths and the size, shape and features of devices, including whether digital screens should be restricted.
• A proposed national registration system for every tobacco, vape or nicotine product aims to keep unsafe or misleading items off the market and give buyers more confidence.
• The Bill also proposes banning advertising and sponsorship of vaping and nicotine products, with a separate consultation next year on smoke-free and vape-free places plus packaging and in‑store displays.