MP for Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes, Melanie Onn, has addressed Parliament, calling for action over what she called a ‘plague’ of ‘dodgy’ vape shops locally and across the country.
In her speech, she asked the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Jonathan Reynolds, what action the government intended to take regarding the increase of ‘dodgy’ vape shops across the country.
She asked, “Are there any plans to crack down on dodgy vape shops that are damaging the appearance of our high streets, or perhaps is there some consideration of improving trading standards to protect our young people and children who are exploited by these premises?”
The Secretary of State replied, “Well, I thank my Honourable Friend for another question. Good product regulation, the confidence the public can have in our system, is important across the board for every sector of the economy.
“She [Onn] would have seen the Product Regulation and Metrology Bill in the King’s Speech, which covers the chance to give powers to the UK Government to regulate in a whole range of fields. That is exactly the kind of area we will be able to consider and debate in more detail at that time.”
Speaking after her question, Melanie Onn MP said, “Dodgy vape shops are quickly becoming a plague on our high streets. These establishments often sell illegal and unregulated vapes, with many of them likely being highly unsafe to use.
“Many of these premises are also putting colourful flashing LEDs and neon signs in their windows, which are unsightly.
“It’s time that robust action is taken against these establishments. I am keen to work with the local authority as much as possible to support the crackdown, and I look forward to debating the issue further once the Product Regulation and Metrology Bill comes to the House of Commons.”
The discussion comes after Labour announced plans to renew the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which was originally introduced by the Conservative government in February. This would see measures put in place to tackle the sale and marketing of vapes and associated products.
Additionally, the Product Regulation and Metrology Bill will grant the UK Government, namely the Secretary of State, additional, more broad powers to regulate products distributed in the UK. The bill will grant the ability to enforce measures to “reduce or mitigate risks presented by products”, “ensure that products operate efficiently or effectively”, and “ensure that products designed for weighing or measuring operate accurately”.
The bill is currently residing in the House of Lords and is approaching its second reading on October 8th. Should it be successful in this stage, it will proceed onwards to the House of Commons, where it is voted upon by Members of Parliament, granted that it passes the remaining stages in the House of Lords.
Reporter.
Part of the Gi Grimsby News team since 2024.