United Kingdom

Is the UK at a "regulatory crossroads"? As the Tobacco and Vapes Bill moves toward Royal Assent, a new government consultation threatens to legally ban vaping in all indoor spaces where smoking is already prohibited. In this interview, Bernice Evans, Chair of the New Nicotine Alliance (NNA), joins us to discuss the launch of the "Save Vaping" campaign. We dive deep into why treating vaping the same as smoking isn't just scientifically flawed - it's a massive risk to public health.

- May 8, 2026 (11:59 PM): Deadline to submit your response to the government consultation.
- October 1, 2026: New vaping taxes and business regulations are set to begin.

Take Action: Your voice matters! Visit SaveVaping.org to find resources on how to respond to the consultation and contact your MP. Don't let misinformed legislation undermine years of progress in harm reduction.

Public health says it wants to end smoking. Yet from London to Brussels, policymakers are advancing measures that treat safer nicotine like combustible tobacco—through high taxes, public bans, and regulatory equalization. In the UK, the Tobacco and Vapes Bill hands sweeping powers to the Secretary of State. In the EU, new tax schemes could bind member states and redirect national excise revenue to Brussels.

In this GFN interviews, Martin Cullip argues these measures converge into what he calls “pro-smoking” policy—undermining harm reduction, eroding national sovereignty, and putting millions of adult consumers across Europe at risk.

Featuring:
MARTIN CULLIP
Intl. Fellow, Taxpayers Protection Alliance
protectingtaxpayers.org
@Protectaxpayers
@NannyFreeState

UK disposable vape ban: what’s changed, what hasn’t, and what’s next? In this episode of GFN News, Joanna Junak speaks with John Dunne (UK Vaping Industry Association) about how the market is responding to new regulation - rising black market activity, the shift from disposables to pod/open-tank systems, and why consumer behavior (including recycling) is still a challenge. They also address public confusion about relative harm compared to smoking, concerns around youth uptake, and why nicotine pouches may grow as an alternative in places where vaping isn’t practical.

Six months after the UK’s disposable vape ban, questions remain over its real-world impact. Industry commentator Martin Cullip discusses weak enforcement funding, the rise of illegal sales, growing environmental awareness, and concerns that the ban could undermine smoking cessation and push some users back to cigarettes.

Part two of the interview will air on Wednesday, January 14th!

Join us for the interview with Martin Cullip as he break down the UK Tobacco and Vapes Bill, expected to become law in 2026. He explores the generational smoking ban, vaping and nicotine regulations, and potential impacts on adult users. Learn why nicotine pouches, flavor restrictions, and ministerial powers are sparking debate, and how consumers and harm-reduction advocates can make their voices heard.

Stay informed about the latest UK tobacco and vaping policies and what they mean for smokers, vapers, and the future of safer nicotine products.