Lincolnshire Council Considers Stricter Measures to Curb Underage Vape and Tobacco Sales
In a move to tighten regulations around the sale of vapes and tobacco to younger customers, Lincolnshire councillors propose more stringent measures. This comes in response to a concerning number of local shops losing their alcohol licenses after being caught selling illegal vapes and tobacco products. Senior officials from Lincolnshire Police have confirmed the shutdown of two stores in Lincoln implicated in these offences. Despite the success of these enforcement operations, the effectiveness of these measures remains in question.
County councillor Tom Ashton said after a public scrutiny meeting on Tuesday, September 12: "Where a retail premises has been found contravening its obligations either in tobacco, vapes, or alcohol, a district council licensing committee can take away their alcohol licence, but that has relatively little deterrent effect, and absolutely no effect on their future ability to sell tobacco or vapes, be they legal or otherwise."
Councillors Urge for Stricter Enforcement
Proposals for stricter enforcement measures are encouraged by councillors, who believe that a successful strategy would involve licensing tobacco and vapes in the same manner as alcohol. Councillor Paul Skinner argues for the introduction of these measures in order to ensure more responsible retailing practices.
He said: "I've thought for some time that tobacco and vapes ought to be part of it. Even people selling on marketplaces and stuff like that have a responsibility. Fortunately, in Boston, we have many responsible vape retailers, but current licensing laws don’t account for those who don’t want to comply. I think the threat of stricter enforcement will make people toe the line, and it shouldn’t have to be that way. People should be doing it for the right reasons."
On-going Discussions on Product Licensing
Discussions regarding the licensing of these products are currently underway, according to Mark Keal, head of Trading Standards at Lincolnshire County Council. He highlighted the loss of alcohol license by Lincoln Food Store, which was caught selling electronic cigarettes to minors.
Support from Retailers
A noticeable supporter of stricter enforcement is 888 Vapour, a regional retailer with stores in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire. Echoing the sentiments of the council, its Director, Callum Cherry, is in favour of licences as they reflect responsible retailer practices and sustain efforts in helping customers give up smoking.
Mr Cherry said: "We're all for any licences because we want to be the people where you stop smoking and continue getting off that dirty habit." "It's a really good bit of kit, It scans your face and gives you a red X or a green tick. A green tick means you’re above the age of 25 and you can proceed with the purchase."