MS, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet
Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs: I am pleased
to confirm that I will be introducing The Environmental Protection
(Single-use Vapes) (Wales) Regulations 2024 to prohibit
the supply (including for free) of single-use vapes in
Wales.
Introducing these Regulations will be another crucial step in
tackling litter and plastic pollution which blight our
environment. It will reduce the amount of waste we generate,
protecting our communities, wildlife and ecosystems for future
generations to enjoy.
Since my last statement on 22 April, we have continued developing
the policy on a UK-wide basis. In July, we sought comments
on our draft Regulations and following feedback, we have made
minor amendments to the Regulations. We have also continued to
engage with stakeholders to help inform our Regulatory Impact
Assessment and Integrated Impact Assessments.
I can now confirm the coming into force of 1 June 2025. The
Welsh Government has worked closely with UK
Government and other Devolved Governments on this matter and
anticipate aligning our coming into force dates. This will enable
the bans to be implemented in a co-ordinated manner to ensure
high levels of compliance and consistent approach to enforcement
across the UK.
Action to tackle the environmental and social impacts of
single-use vapes is a key priority for the Welsh Government and
we continue to work with the other UK nations to address these
challenges.
