AQW 36556/22-27

Ms Kellie Armstrong
Alliance Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 01/12/2025
Answered On Date: 16/12/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health to detail any progress made to ban the advertisement of all types of vapes (i) near schools; and (ii) by confectionary retailers.

Answer:

Advertising of nicotine vapes is restricted in the UK, under the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016, which makes it is unlawful to advertise nicotine-containing products in a manner that promotes their use or appeals to children. There are currently no restrictions on the advertising of non-nicotine vapes and other nicotine products such as pouches.

Under the Tobacco Advertising and Promotion (Display) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012 and The Tobacco Advertising and Promotion (Display of Prices) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012, it is illegal to display tobacco products and the prices of tobacco products, in the course of business in Northern Ireland. However, there are no current restrictions on the display of vaping or other nicotine products in retail settings.

This will be addressed by the UK-wide Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which is currently progressing through Parliament. The Bill, which has the support of the NI Assembly, aims to address the current gaps in legislation, by banning the advertising and sponsorship of all vape and nicotine products and by providing powers to regulate flavours and packaging, to reduce their appeal to children. The Bill will also introduce regulation-making powers to prohibit point of sale displays for vapes and other nicotine products. It is expected that the Bill will progress to the House of Lords Report Stage in early 2026.