Vape usage in England grew by more than 400% between 2012 and 2023, with 9.1% of the British public now buying and using these products.

Minister for Public Health and Prevention, Andrew Gwynne, said: ‘It's deeply worrying that a quarter of 11-15-year-olds used a vape last year and we know disposables are the product of choice for the majority of kids vaping today.

‘Banning disposable vapes will not only protect the environment, but importantly reduce the appeal of vapes to children and keep them out of the hands of vulnerable young people.'

The Government has laid legislation to introduce the ban and, subject to parliamentary approval, businesses will have until 1 June 2025 to sell any remaining stock they hold and prepare for the ban coming into force. The UK Government and Devolved Governments have worked closely and will align coming into force dates.

In addition, the government will also introduce the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which will pave the way for a smoke-free UK.

The public is in favour of restricting the sale and supply of single-use vapes, with 69% of consultation respondents supporting these proposals in February 2024.

In response, Cllr David Fothergill, chairman of the Local Government Association's Community Wellbeing Board, said: ‘Their colours, flavours and advertising are appealing to children and are a risk to the health of young people. 

‘We look forward to working with the Government and others to enforce this ban as well as ensure plans for a smokefree generation are a success.'