Tobacco

ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) has responded to the Department of Health and Social Care’s consultation on tobacco and vaping restrictions, highlighting the need for a tighter regulatory framework around the vaping market to prevent youth access and encourage recycling.

The Welsh Government has introduced new plans to create a national retailers register of tobacco and nicotine products, including e-cigarettes and tobacco papers.

This proposal featured in the Public Health Bill (Wales) which was initiated into the National Assembly for Wales yesterday. The Bill also includes proposals to make the proxy purchase of tobacco and nicotine products illegal, meaning an adult cannot buy tobacco products on behalf of a person under the age of 18.

The Tobacco Display Ban came into effect for all small stores on 6^th April 2015 meaning that it is now illegal to display tobacco products to customers, unless a display is requested by someone over the age of 18.

Since the implementation of the ban, ACS has worked closely with retailers to ensure all convenience stores comply with and fully understand the new regulations. As part of their work to help retailers know what they can and can’t do under the new law, ACS has produced a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) and their answers.

ACS is encouraging retailers to follow Assured Advice on the tobacco display ban to ensure compliance with the regulations. By signing up to Assured Advice (free of charge for ACS members), retailers cannot be challenged by local enforcement agencies if they are following the guidance set out through Assured Advice.

Regulations enforcing standardised tobacco packaging have been approved by MPs by 367 to 113, majority 254, in a free vote in the House of Commons.