ASH Wales are pleased that the Welsh Government have responded positively to the evidence put before them and have abandoned plans to ban e-cigarettes in public places.
The evidence shows that e-cigarettes are being used as a cessation tool by a significant number of ex-smokers. It is important that e-cigarettes are properly regulated and are used for cessation purposes only, but the distinction between tobacco and e-cigarettes needs to be made clear. It is universally agreed that vaping is far less harmful that cigarettes, in fact according to Public Health England they are 95% less harmful. There is also no evidence to suggest the passive vapour from e-cigs is harmful to the health of bystanders.
ASH Wales is looking forward to supporting the revised Public Health Bill which contains some progressive tobacco control measures including the introduction of a tobacco retail register.
