Retailers fear a ban on e-cigarettes in the UK could hit the convenience trade, after it emerged that the Australian government is set to ban recreational e-cigarettes.
Experts say they are dealing with an epidemic of vaping among young people, many of whom do not smoke.
Australia will impose restrictions on taste, color, nicotine concentration and other ingredients, as well as paperback packaging. E-cigarette sales will be limited to pharmacies.
Dennis Williams, of Premier Broadway in Edinburgh, said of Britain that while measures needed to be taken to limit sales, common sense had to be used.
“Bans don’t work.” “He added. “They fuel the illegal trade and restricting sales through pharmacies puts even more pressure on the NHS.”
John Dunn, director general of the UK e-cigarette Industry Association, said a similar ban in the UK would fuel the black market and would not solve the problem.
Speaking on LBC radio, he said: “All of this will make it difficult for adults to buy vape products.
“We are calling for retailers who sell e-cigarettes to minors to be fined £10,000 and for e-cigarette retailers to be licensed.”
Last week, Westminster hosted a debate on teenagers’ vaping, which heard some calls for an outright ban.
Environmental campaigner Laura Young’s campaign to ban disposables in Scotland has gained momentum, with 14 councils pledging their support.