Disposable vape ban: Scottish government publishes responses withheld over tobacco industry links
August 17, 2024
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The Scottish government has released responses from key trade bodies and tobacco companies, following a public consultation on the proposed ban on single-use vapes.
The responses were not considered in the government response to the consultation, aligning with the obligation under the World Health Organisation’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC).
Article 5.3 of the FCTC mandates the protection of public health policies from the influence of tobacco industry interests.
The government said it has made these industry responses public in the interest of transparency.
The consultation, held between April 2 and May 14, 2024, attracted 45 responses, including 18 from organisations and 27 from individuals. Among these, four organisations declared direct links to the tobacco industry, which includes funding or membership ties with tobacco companies.
The responses from organisations with direct links to the tobacco industry have been published in full, and these include the Association of Convenience Stores, the Scottish Grocers’ Federation, and major tobacco and vape companies British American Tobacco and Imperial Brands.
The government added that HG Innovation Ltd did not grant permission for their responses to be published.
The responses can be viewed here.
