A new law is set to come into force on Sunday 1st June banning the sale of single use vapes.

The ban will make it illegal for businesses to sell or supply, offer to sell or supply, or have in their possession for sale or supply single-use or ‘disposable’ vapes. It applies to online sales and shops, and all vapes whether they contain nicotine or not.

Any shopkeepers found to be in breach of the new law could face a fine of up to £5,000 and closure of their business.

Shops will still be able to sell or supply reusable vapes.

Councillor Phil Atkins, cabinet member responsible for trading standards, said: “We want to make all shopkeepers in the borough aware of the change in the law which is just around the corner regarding the sale and supply of single use vapes.

“It has been brought in to combat growing health concerns, particularly with regard to young people, and provide additional protection to consumers. It will also address environmental damage caused by carelessly throwing away disposable vapes.

“The consequences of continuing to sell disposable vapes are very serious indeed. We will be visiting every business in the borough from June 1 onwards to ensure compliance with the new law.”