Questions the environmental impact of reusable vape devices, citing an estimate of 2 billion units being sold by 2034. Challenges the Minister to explain how this will differ from disposable vapes in terms of environmental consequences.

It is an honour to be speaking for the Opposition on this important motion on environmental protection. This statutory instrument was originally put forward by the previous Conservative Government, which seeks to ban disposable vapes due to their significant environmental risks and dangers to human health, especially young people. The improper disposal of single-use vapes leads to serious fires, pollution, and threats to waterways and wildlife. Furthermore, there are concerns about illegal importation of vapes that flout legal safety regulations on the number of puffs and potentially the nicotine content, including those containing illicit substances like lead and nickel. This poses serious consequences for the physical and mental health of young people who may be enticed by social media advertisements with bright colours and appealing flavours. The statutory instrument specifically targets disposable vapes that are affecting many young people, but we need to address all disposable vapes, legal or illegal, as it is unknown what long-term consequences vaping has on their physical and mental health.

The issue is not just about disposable vapes but also illegal vapes, of which up to 120 million may be being sold each year. The regulations deal only with legal vapes but should concentrate more on the environmental impact and other health impacts of illegal imports that are already taking place in massive numbers.

Thanked constituents for their support and praised his predecessors, Lord Knight and Richard Drax. Highlighted the importance of community pride in South Dorset and its historical significance, including the work done by Trevor Chadwick during World War II and Sir Thomas Fowell Buxton's role in the abolitionist movement. Emphasised the need to preserve the Jurassic coast and support local businesses and institutions such as Weymouth hospital.

Congratulated Lloyd Hatton on his maiden speech and expressed support for banning single-use vapes. Cited environmental and public health concerns, noting that over 5 million disposable vapes are discarded weekly in the UK, posing threats to wildlife, waterways, and animal welfare. Highlighted the appeal of these devices to young people due to their colourful packaging and lower prices compared to traditional cigarettes. Urged for robust regulations and investment in cessation services.

Vaping remains the most effective tool for smokers to quit, with recent data from ASH showing that in the last five years, 2.7 million hard smokers have used vaping as a means of quitting. Disposable vapes have played a crucial role in supporting smoker transition to a less harmful, accessible and affordable entry-level product. However, there are concerns about their environmental impact and accessibility to children. The Government's ban on disposable vapes may lead to an increase in the black-market availability of these products, posing greater risks to the environment and children’s health. Instead of banning disposables outright, stronger enforcement of existing regulations could address these issues without hindering smokers' access to a useful quitting tool. The Government should consider legislating for 'one device, one tank' to prevent irresponsible manufacturers from innovating around the ban.

Welcomes the regulations introduced by the current government but expresses disappointment that they will not come into effect until June. Argues for the importance of protecting children from vapes, declaring an interest as a mother of three children and a former NHS doctor. Criticises the vaping industry for making devices more attractive to children through flavored and character-shaped products, risking creating a generation of nicotine addicts with unknown long-term effects. Also highlights environmental concerns, noting that 1.3 million single-use vapes are discarded weekly in the UK, causing toxic waste pollution and posing fire risks when crushed in bin lorries.

Expresses concern over the unintended consequences of banning disposable vapes, including increased smoking rates among current vapers and ex-smokers. Highlights that about one-third of disposable vapes are illegal, and this could increase to an estimated 1 billion by 2030 if regulations do not address this issue effectively. Questions the government's approach to enforcement and the potential for reusable vapes to contribute similarly to environmental harm.

Raises concerns about consumer difficulty in distinguishing legal from illegal disposable vapes. Emphasises that banning all disposable vapes will make it clearer which products are legal, addressing the issue of consumers unknowingly purchasing non-compliant products.

Asks for clarification on Chope's stance regarding the ban on disposable vapes and whether he supports a broader ban or no ban at all. Indicates that clarity is needed to understand the full implications of his arguments.

Declares interest as a former smoker who uses reusable vapes now, emphasising cost savings and personal responsibility. Argues against Chope's correlation between banning disposable vapes and increased smoking among children, suggesting that reusable vapes offer the same options for flavors.

Welcomed new shadow DEFRA team members and expressed concern over the dangers of illegal vapes. Emphasised the importance of producer responsibility for waste electricals, particularly regarding vape products. Stressed the need for proper enforcement to prevent misuse of critical resources and harm to the environment. Acknowledged support from public services and stakeholders. Called for a ban on single-use vapes designed as toys, appealing to those under 18.

Expressed concern over the limited inspection of containers coming into ports like Southampton, highlighting that it only takes one container to smuggle in tens of millions of pounds-worth of vapes.

Inquired about the scope of the impact assessment for this legislation, noting that it only refers to this piece of legislation rather than other measures proposed by the Government. Raised concerns over whether an overall assessment needs to be done to evaluate the effects comprehensively.