Calls for regulation of e-cigarettes in Hong Kong

In Hong Kong, Children as young as six have ‘admitted’ trying electronic cigarettes, according to a story by Danny Lee for the South China Morning Post and citing the results of a survey conducted by the social welfare group Caritas.

The survey findings are said to have brought calls for tighter regulation of these devices and a ban on their sale to those under 18 years of age.

Of the 361 primary school children under the age of 12 who were surveyed, three percent said they had tried electronic cigarettes at least once. About 20 percent said they knew where to buy the products.

Caritas was said to have recommended that the government ‘legislate against the sale of e-cigarettes, including banning sales to those under 18’.

It also called for the labelling of all chemicals contained in the devices and for the provision of more guidance for parents about the ‘side-effects on children’.

Caritas said schools should be made to deploy ‘preventative education’.

The Asian Vape Association, a lobby group set up by electronic cigarette companies, previously told the Post that a government ban imposed without supporting scientific proof, would be irresponsible.

But it was said to have supported regulation of the devices.

“It is irresponsible for the government to prohibit personal vaporisers with no scientific basis,” a spokesman said.

“If they are worried about harmful substances, they should regulate them instead of banning them.”