Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS)

Vapes, also known as e-cigarettes, e-vaporizers, or electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), are battery-powered devices that heat a liquid solution, called e-liquid, to produce a vapor that users inhale.

Vaping is substantially less harmful than smoking, but it has not been around for long enough for its long-term risks to be known, according to the NHS.

Vaping industry leaders have warned the move could fuel a rise in illegal sales of the products.

Public health minister Andrew Gwynne said banning disposables would "reduce the appeal of vapes to children and keep them out of the hands of vulnerable young people".

Vaping is substantially less harmful than smoking, but it has not been around for long enough for its long-term risks to be known, according to the NHS.

The government said it had worked closely with the devolved nations and they would "align coming into force dates" on bans, with Wales already confirming it will follow suit the ban is to be effective from 1 June, 2025

Vaping industry leaders have warned the move could fuel a rise in illegal sales of the products.

The Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (Defra) said vape usage in England had grown by more than 400% between 2012 and 2023, with 9% of the British public now buying and using the products.

Public health minister Andrew Gwynne said banning disposables would "reduce the appeal of vapes to children and keep them out of the hands of vulnerable young people".