URL: https://democracy.runnymede.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1028

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: The Committee received for information an update on the Tobacco and Vapes Bill which was introduced in the House of Commons in November 2024 and subject to approval from parliament, the age of sale restriction element was likely to come into force on 1 January 2027.   When enacted, there would be a new licensing regime, with commonality in design and operation to the Licensing Act 2003, applying to all forms of tobacco, nicotine, vaping and associated items for all forms of retail sale.  Specifically a personal licence would be required to possess, expose for sale and sell all relevant products and a premises licence to use or permit the use of premises to store, expose for sale, sell and or supply such goods to a retail customer.   It was likely that local authorities would be designated as the Licensing Authority and would draw up the policies and procedures and that the enforcing authority would be Trading Standards.  There would also be a fee charging structure and provisions for offences and penalties.   Officers would bring a report to a future meeting of the Committee when the implications for local authorities were known in respect of implementation of the Act.  This would follow on from a Government consultation and introduction of regulations.  The lead in time was expected to be between 6 and 12 months.   Officers were thanked for their report which was duly noted.

Date of Decision: June 18, 2025