Vaping Epidemic: Government Takes Action as Tobacco Companies Warn of Black Market Infiltration
The article discusses the increasing popularity of vaping among teenagers and the government's lack of action to regulate it.
The government has recently launched an "illicit vape enforcement squad" to ban free vape samples for children and is reviewing the possibility of adding on-the-spot fines for retailers selling vapes to under-18s.
However, tobacco companies are warning that tougher regulation will drive them to the black market.
The author of the article personally knows people who have started vaping, including his own children, and is concerned about the long-term effects on young lungs.
The author argues that the government should take similar safeguards with vapes as it has with smoking, including strict regulation, higher taxes, and crackdowns on marketing.
The author also mentions that e-cigarettes are currently less regulated than traditional cigarettes.
The article discusses the potential benefits of allowing e-cigarettes to be purchased through pharmacists in Australia, as well as the negative impact of such products on public health.
It highlights that tobacco companies are the only winners from the current system, and the government receives short-term benefits.
The article also mentions the importance of the creative and cultural industries in London and the potential negative impact of arts cuts on the industry.
Additionally, the article discusses the personal life of Kim Kardashian and the difficulties she faced in her marriage with Kanye West, highlighting the importance of mental health support.