UK’S CHILD VAPING EPIDEMIC ON THE RISE – Campaigners have long blamed predatory manufacturers for the ever-growing crisis

Figures show how the proportion of kids using e-cigarettes has exploded amid the decline of traditional smoking, with more than a third of 16 to 18-year-olds now regularly inhaling vapes. The sale of vapes to under-18s was banned, with anyone caught selling them to children threatened with fines and prosecution by Trading Standards.

Campaigners have long blamed predatory manufacturers for the ever-growing crisis, claiming they are intentionally luring kids in with colorful packaging, compared to highlighter pens, and child-friendly flavors such as bubblegum and cotton candy.

Under the Prime Minister’s wider crackdown, vapes were expected to be limited to four flavours, sold in plain, tobacco-style packaging and displayed out of sight of kids.

But July’s general election has now quashed any hopes of the historic bill passing before this Parliament.Both Germany and Ireland have outlined their own proposals to place restrictions on vapes, with Berlin chiefs currently considering an outright ban on disposable e-cigs.

E-cigs allow people to inhale nicotine in a vapour — which is produced by heating a liquid, which typically contains propylene glycol, glycerine, flavourings, and other chemicals. Other research has highlighted the risk posed by the chemical reactions that occur in the vaping process.Metal components of the devices which heat the liquid containing the nicotine and flavourings — creating the vapour — can also release a plume of toxic metals. These include arsenic, chromium, nickel and lead, known carcinogens.