Latest news with #ASH
Daily Record
5 days ago
- Daily Record
France brings in new law starting July 1 with holiday activities affected
Brits could also face penalties in Spain, Italy and more British holidaymakers could be slapped with fines of up to £1,700 this summer if they're caught vaping on beaches where a ban is in place, including popular hotspots in Spain, France and Italy - with a new rule beginning in France from July 1. Recent figures from Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) reveal there are approximately 5.6 million vapers in Great Britain, with nearly 90% either attempting to quit smoking or having already kicked the habit. With such a large number depending on vaping as a means to stop smoking, many Brits jetting off abroad may unwittingly face steep penalties on beaches where vaping is banned. Places in France, Barcelona and Benidorm are among the numerous locations where stricter vaping restrictions are being imposed and where tourists risk some of the stiffest fines. Dan Marchant, director of Vape Club, has clarified the latest rules and urged those heading overseas this summer to be aware of vaping restrictions across popular European beaches. Where might you face fines for vaping in Europe? France From July 1, France will prohibit smoking in outdoor areas frequented by children, including beaches, parks, schools, bus stops and sports venues. This is part of a wider effort that started in 2011 with a beach ban and has since broadened. Those found breaching these laws face fines of up to €135 (£115). Spain Spain has been notably active in broadening its smoke-free zones, often treating vaping the same as smoking. In 2024, the Spanish Medical Association unveiled new anti-smoking measures that also target vaping in public places such as beaches and restaurant terraces. Several popular Spanish beaches where vaping bans are now enforced include L'Albir Beach in Alicante, Levante and Poniente Beaches in Benidorm, Barceloneta, Nova Icaria, and Bogatell in Barcelona, and Malvarrosa Beach in Valencia. Those found to be flouting the law can face fines up to €2,000, equivalent to £1,700. Greece In December 2024, EU Health Ministers approved stricter anti-smoking measures in Greece, including a ban on vaping in outdoor spaces like beaches. If caught, fines can reach up to €500, equivalent to £420. Italy In Italy, laws vary by municipality. Bibione in Veneto introduced a beach smoking ban in 2019, which was later adopted by other coastal towns. Larger cities like Milan have implemented bans on vaping in crowded outdoor areas, with fines ranging from €40 (£33) to €240 (£200) for violators. Portugal Portugal has put into effect vaping restrictions on beaches, but the rules can differ by region, so travellers should check local regulations before visiting. Avoid fines while travelling this summer Before you jet off, make sure to check the local vaping laws. Many travel agencies and tourist boards offer current information, so it's a good idea to consult your holiday provider before you go. Keep an eye out for no-vaping signs, especially in areas that are popular with families or along the coast. Even if vaping isn't banned, always consider others around you, particularly in places that cater to families. Dan Marchant, director of Vape Club, advised: "As vaping regulations continue to change, it's important for travellers to stay up to date with the local laws to avoid any unexpected fines or more serious consequences. Always check local legislation before you travel. "This can be done through the foreign office website or the customs department of the country you're visiting. Some countries have strict rules not only about where you can vape, but also whether you can bring your vaping device into the country at all. It's worth doing a bit of research ahead of time to avoid issues at the border or during your stay. "In some destinations, buying vaping supplies may be difficult and possibly even illegal. If it is allowed, bring what you need - but we would advise you to double-check import limits. If you are travelling to a vaping-friendly destination by plane, remember to pack your batteries and vaping devices in your carry-on luggage. This ensures they remain in a pressure-controlled environment, as they're not allowed in checked baggage."
Wales Online
5 days ago
- Wales Online
New law in France from July 1 bans activity that's legal in UK
New law in France from July 1 bans activity that's legal in UK Anyone heading over to the continent for holidays this summer is being advised as to how rules can differ to at home The new law in France will affect various areas - including beaches (Image: Pexels ) British tourists could be fined up to £1,700 this summer if they're caught vaping on beaches where a ban is in place, including popular destinations in Spain, France and Italy - with a new rule starting in France on July 1. Recent data from Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) shows there are around 5.6 million vapers in Great Britain, with nearly 90% either trying to quit smoking or having already quit. With so many relying on vaping as a smoking cessation tool, many Brits heading abroad may unknowingly face hefty penalties on beaches where vaping is prohibited. Locations in France, Barcelona and Benidorm are among the many where stricter vaping restrictions are being enforced and where tourists risk some of the harshest fines. Dan Marchant, director of Vape Club, has explained the latest rules and urged those heading abroad this summer to be mindful of vaping restrictions across popular European beaches. Where could you face fines for vaping in Europe? France Starting on July 1, France will ban smoking in outdoor areas frequented by children, including beaches, parks, schools, bus stops and sports venues. This is part of a broader effort that began in 2011 with a beach ban and has since expanded. Those found to be violating these laws face fines of up to €135 (£115). Spain Spain has been particularly proactive in expanding its smoke-free zones and in many cases, vaping is treated the same as smoking. In 2024, the Spanish Medical Association announced new anti-smoking measures that also target vaping in public places such as beaches and restaurant terraces. Article continues below Some of the popular beaches in Spain where vaping bans are now enforced include L'Albir Beach in Alicante, Levante and Poniente Beaches in Benidorm, Barceloneta, Nova Icaria, and Bogatell in Barcelona, and Malvarrosa Beach in Valencia. Those found to be breaking the law can face fines up to €2,000, equivalent to £1,700. Greece In December 2024, EU Health Ministers approved stricter anti-smoking measures in Greece, including a ban on vaping in outdoor spaces like beaches. If caught, fines can reach up to €500, equivalent to £420. Italy In Italy, laws differ by municipality. Bibione in Veneto introduced a beach smoking ban in 2019, which was later adopted by other coastal towns. Larger cities like Milan have implemented bans on vaping in crowded outdoor areas, with fines ranging from €40 (£33) to €240 (£200) for violators. Rules vary across Europe - so it's worth checking before you travel (Image: Pexels ) Portugal Portugal has implemented vaping restrictions on beaches, but the rules can differ by region, so travellers should check local regulations before visiting. Avoid fines while travelling this summer Check local laws: Research vaping regulations before you travel. Many tourist boards and travel agencies provide up-to-date information, so it's worth checking the rules ahead of time with your holiday provider. Research vaping regulations before you travel. Many tourist boards and travel agencies provide up-to-date information, so it's worth checking the rules ahead of time with your holiday provider. Look for signage: Pay attention to designated no-smoking areas, particularly in coastal and family-friendly locations. Pay attention to designated no-smoking areas, particularly in coastal and family-friendly locations. Respect the rules: Even if vaping is permitted, be mindful of those around you, especially in family-oriented areas. Article continues below Dan Marchant, director of Vape Club, said: 'As vaping regulations continue to change, it's important for travellers to stay up to date with the local laws to avoid any unexpected fines or more serious consequences. Always check local legislation before you travel. "This can be done through the foreign office website or the customs department of the country you're visiting. Some countries have strict rules not only about where you can vape, but also whether you can bring your vaping device into the country at all. It's worth doing a bit of research ahead of time to avoid issues at the border or during your stay. "In some destinations, buying vaping supplies may be difficult and possibly even illegal. If it is allowed, bring what you need - but we would advise you to double-check import limits. If you are travelling to a vaping-friendly destination by plane, remember to pack your batteries and vaping devices in your carry-on luggage. This ensures they remain in a pressure-controlled environment, as they're not allowed in checked baggage."
The Independent
6 days ago
- Health
- The Independent
More and more children aware of nicotine pouches, charity warns
There is growing awareness of nicotine pouches among children and teenagers, a charity has warned. The pouches, which contain addictive nicotine and often sweeteners and flavourings, can be bought cheaply and are frequently used as a tobacco substitute. There is currently a lack of evidence on the health effects of the pouches, which are placed under the top lip. The current law means people of any age can also buy them. In February, trading standards teams in Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Dorset warned they were seeing a 'significant growth' in illegal versions containing potentially dangerous levels of nicotine. A new YouGov survey commissioned by the charity Action on Smoking and Health (Ash) has found a growing awareness of nicotine pouches among under-18s – rising from 38% in 2024 to 43% in 2025. Almost 4% of teenagers also report trying the pouches, according to the poll of 2,746 youngsters aged 11 to 17. Ash data also shows that between 2023 and 2025, nicotine pouch use has increased among younger adults aged 18 to 34. Some 2.6% of 18 to 34-year-olds currently use them, compared to 0.2% of those aged over 55. Ash said that while nicotine pouches are less harmful than smoking, there are currently no limits on the strength of the nicotine, and few controls over their marketing and advertising. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill is currently going through Parliament which will ban the advertising and sponsorship of all vapes and other nicotine products (such as nicotine pouches) and ban all vapes and nicotine products (and non-nicotine vapes) from being sold to under-18s. Conservative MP Bob Blackman, co-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Smoking and Health, said: 'Many of the big nicotine pouch brands are owned by tobacco companies with decades of experience targeting our children. 'The longer it takes for this Government to regulate, the more time the tobacco industry has to promote their products to the next generation.' Ash said the Government must now prioritise the passage of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill. Hazel Cheeseman, chief executive of Ash, said: 'The surge in teen awareness and growing levels of use in young adults over the last two years indicates that the industry's marketing strategies are working. 'Products are highly promoted in shops and on social media with football stars and male influencers used to further raise their profile. 'Nicotine pouches are very likely to be less harmful than smoking. However, they must be properly regulated.' Tobacco and vapes lead for Chartered Trading Standards Institute, Kate Pike, said: 'I hear from trading standards teams across the country who are getting reports from concerned citizens who have seen teenagers being sold these products. 'However, there is no action we can take until the law is changed as no offence is being committed.' A Department of Health and Social Care spokesman said: 'Our landmark Tobacco and Vapes Bill will ban the sale of nicotine pouches to under-18s and stop vapes and nicotine products from being deliberately promoted and advertised to children. 'The Bill will place nicotine pouches under the same advertising restrictions as tobacco and provides powers to regulate their nicotine limits, flavours, packaging and how they are displayed. 'It will stop the next generation from getting hooked on nicotine and put an end to the cycle of addiction and disadvantage.'
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
More and more children aware of nicotine pouches, charity warns
There is growing awareness of nicotine pouches among children and teenagers, a charity has warned. The pouches, which contain addictive nicotine and often sweeteners and flavourings, can be bought cheaply and are frequently used as a tobacco substitute. There is currently a lack of evidence on the health effects of the pouches, which are placed under the top lip. The current law means people of any age can also buy them. In February, trading standards teams in Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Dorset warned they were seeing a 'significant growth' in illegal versions containing potentially dangerous levels of nicotine. A new YouGov survey commissioned by the charity Action on Smoking and Health (Ash) has found a growing awareness of nicotine pouches among under-18s – rising from 38% in 2024 to 43% in 2025. Almost 4% of teenagers also report trying the pouches, according to the poll of 2,746 youngsters aged 11 to 17. Ash data also shows that between 2023 and 2025, nicotine pouch use has increased among younger adults aged 18 to 34. Some 2.6% of 18 to 34-year-olds currently use them, compared to 0.2% of those aged over 55. Ash said that while nicotine pouches are less harmful than smoking, there are currently no limits on the strength of the nicotine, and few controls over their marketing and advertising. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill is currently going through Parliament which will ban the advertising and sponsorship of all vapes and other nicotine products (such as nicotine pouches) and ban all vapes and nicotine products (and non-nicotine vapes) from being sold to under-18s. Conservative MP Bob Blackman, co-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Smoking and Health, said: 'Many of the big nicotine pouch brands are owned by tobacco companies with decades of experience targeting our children. 'The longer it takes for this Government to regulate, the more time the tobacco industry has to promote their products to the next generation.' Ash said the Government must now prioritise the passage of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill. Hazel Cheeseman, chief executive of Ash, said: 'The surge in teen awareness and growing levels of use in young adults over the last two years indicates that the industry's marketing strategies are working. 'Products are highly promoted in shops and on social media with football stars and male influencers used to further raise their profile. 'Nicotine pouches are very likely to be less harmful than smoking. However, they must be properly regulated.' Tobacco and vapes lead for Chartered Trading Standards Institute, Kate Pike, said: 'I hear from trading standards teams across the country who are getting reports from concerned citizens who have seen teenagers being sold these products. 'However, there is no action we can take until the law is changed as no offence is being committed.'
Daily Record
6 days ago
- Daily Record
Tourists risk hefty fines for having popular holiday item on European beaches this summer
Holidaymakers jetting off to some of Europe's most popular beach resorts this summer could face fines of up to £1,700 if they're caught with one popular holiday item British holidaymakers could be slapped with fines of up to £1,700 this summer if they're nabbed on the beach with one banned item. The restrictions will kick in from July 1 in France, while other favourite tourist hotspots like Spain and Italy have already enforced the ban. In Britain, there are roughly 5.6 million vapers, according to data from Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), with many adopting the habit in an attempt to quit smoking. While we're accustomed to people vaping publicly and legally, Brits jetting off abroad could unknowingly rack up hefty fines on beaches where vaping is prohibited. Numerous European countries, such as France, Barcelona, and Benidorm, are implementing stricter vaping regulations as reported by the Mirror, which can lead to severe penalties for tourists. These are the vaping regulations you need to be clued up on before your summer holiday.... France From July 1, France will ban smoking in outdoor areas frequented by children, including beaches, parks, schools, bus stops, and sports venues. This is part of a broader initiative that began in 2011 with a beach ban and has since expanded. Those caught flouting these laws could face fines of up to €135 (£115). Spain Spain has been notably proactive in expanding its smoke-free areas, often equating vaping with smoking. In 2024, the Spanish Medical Association introduced new anti-smoking regulations that also cover vaping in public spaces such as beaches and restaurant terraces. Several popular Spanish beaches have implemented vaping bans, including L'Albir Beach in Alicante, Levante and Poniente Beaches in Benidorm, Barceloneta, Nova Icaria, and Bogatell in Barcelona, and Malvarrosa Beach in Valencia. Tourists caught flouting the rules may face penalties of up to €2,000 – a hefty sum amounting to around £1,700. Greece In Greece, EU Health Ministers approved more stringent anti-smoking policies in December 2024, introducing a ban on outdoor vaping areas such as beaches. Violators could find themselves facing fines of up to €500, translating to £420. Italy The situation in Italy is varied, with regulations dependent on the town or district. The beach town of Bibione in Veneto led the charge towards a smoke-free coast in 2019, with others following suit. Major cities like Milan have clamped down on vaping in busy outdoor spots, imposing fines from €40 (£33) to €240 (£200). Portugal Portugal has moved to restrict vaping on its beaches as well, although the specifics might vary across regions, so holidaymakers are urged to familiarise themselves with local rules before visiting. Sharing tips for those planning a getaway, Dan Marchant, Director of Vape Club, remarked: "As vaping regulations continue to change, it's important for travellers to stay up to date with the local laws to avoid any unexpected fines or more serious consequences. Always check local legislation before you travel. "This can be done through the foreign office website or the customs department of the country you're visiting. Some countries have strict rules not only about where you can vape, but also whether you can bring your vaping device into the country at all. It's worth doing a bit of research ahead of time to avoid issues at the border or during your stay. "In some destinations, buying vaping supplies may be difficult and possibly even illegal. If it is allowed, bring what you need - but we would advise you to double-check import limits. If you are travelling to a vaping-friendly destination by plane, remember to pack your batteries and vaping devices in your carry-on luggage. This ensures they remain in a pressure-controlled environment, as they're not allowed in checked baggage."
