The UK Government will ban vapes within eight months, Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed. This measure aims to protect public health, especially for young people. A “flat rate duty” on all vaping liquids will begin in October 2026.
During her announcement, Reeves detailed significant changes to tobacco duties. She stated, “I can confirm that the Government will renew the Tobacco Duty escalator for the remainder of this Parliament at RPI+2%.” This escalation will apply to all tobacco products, including hand-rolling tobacco.
Additionally, the Chancellor revealed plans to raise duty on hand-rolling tobacco by another 10% this year. An “additional one-off increase in tobacco duty” will also take effect to encourage people to quit smoking.
Soft Drinks Levy and Expected Revenue
The government will increase the Soft Drinks Industry Levy to account for inflation since its introduction. From now on, this duty will increase annually in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI). These measures aim to raise nearly £1 billion per year by the end of the forecast period.
This announcement comes after new laws were proposed this month to ban disposable vape sales starting June 1, 2025. The aim is to protect children’s health while addressing the growing issue of plastic waste. Last year, over five million disposable vapes were discarded weekly, a quadruple increase since 2022.
Refills Allowed, Focus on Youth Protection
Although disposable vapes will be banned, refillable vapes will remain available. Doctors use them to help individuals quit smoking. The government expects Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland to adopt the same ban date.
The rising concern over youth vaping has prompted these actions. Reports show that many children illegally purchase disposable vapes, which often feature appealing flavors like bubblegum and candy floss.
Budget 2024 Highlights
In today’s Budget announcement, Reeves also confirmed that there would be “no higher taxes at the petrol pumps next year.” However, the public will still face a staggering £40 billion in tax increases. This includes significant hikes in tobacco and soft drink duties.
On a positive note, pubs will benefit from a 1.7% tax cut on draught alcoholic drinks, effectively reducing the cost of a pint by a penny. In a surprising twist, the government plans to unfreeze income tax thresholds starting in 2028, providing financial relief for millions of workers.
Government’s Stance on Youth Vaping
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is likely to face criticism for what some view as “nanny state” interference. This follows a series of health-focused measures, including the proposed outdoor smoking ban. Health Minister Andrew Gwynne expressed concern, stating, “It’s deeply worrying that a quarter of 11 to 15-year-olds used a vape last year.”
This statistic emphasizes the urgency of banning single-use vapes as part of efforts to combat the throwaway culture. Currently, a disposable vape retails for between £3 and £10, contributing to an estimated £2.8 billion e-cigarette industry in the UK.
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