Illegal vapes seized as Wigan Council supports efforts to prevent underage sales

Illegal vapes seized as Wigan Council supports efforts to prevent underage sales

A crackdown on illegal vapes has seen Wigan Council seize £16k worth of products, coinciding with its elected members taking a stand against underage sales.

The seizures by trading standards officers were from shops in Wigan, Leigh, Ashton and Hindley.

Last week councillors from across Wigan Borough backed proposals to tackle the illegal sale of vapes and to highlight their harmful effects, particularly on young people.

Councillor Jenny Bullen, cabinet portfolio holder for children and families, proposed the motion that was heard at the latest meeting of the full council.

She said: “I am proud to have brought this proposal to the council chamber and for it to have received cross-party support, strongly expressing our intention to tackle the illegal sale of unauthorised vapes to underage children.

“It’s really concerning that we are seeing a rise in the numbers of young people vaping. Nationwide, there is concern that e-cigarettes are being marketed to teenagers who do not smoke rather than adults who are trying to quit.

“The long-term implications of young people vaping are unknown, and most vapes contain nicotine, which is incredibly addictive.”

The recent enforcement action came after reports of underage sales taking place in the borough.

Some of these vapes held 10 times the legal limit of e-liquid and many had incorrect information, labelling and packaging, placing local people- particularly young people – at risk.

Rachel Musgrave, Director for Public Health at Wigan Council, said:“Taking action to seize illegal vapes is crucial to protect people from harm, especially our children and young people.

“We also need tighter national regulations around advertising and marketing as well as stronger licensing and regulation of vapes to protect children and young people from harm and the risk of setting them up for a life-long dangerous smoking habit.

“I would encourage parents and carers to proactively speak to their children about the use of vapes and explain the risks and dangers associated with them.”

A recent survey by Trading Standards North West showed a big increase in young people vaping with 14 per cent claiming to have vaped more than once a week, compared to six per cent in 2020.

Councillor Paul Prescott, cabinet portfolio holder for planning, environmental services and transport, said: “It is a real worry that these illegal and unsafe products are being sold in shops. Our Trading Standards team continue to work hard to protect our communities.

“We would always encourage people to get in touch with us if they have concerns about the activity of a local trader. Anyone wishing to report underage sales of vapes or other Trading Standards issues can ring in confidence 0808 223 1133 or ts@wigan.gov.uk”