Parliament Member Backs Special Status Vape Shops

U.K. Member of Parliament Mark Pawsey, chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Vaping, has called for vape stores to remain open during the Covid-19 lockdown to safeguard public health.

“Given its vital role in smoking cessation, even when compared to NRT [nicotine replacement therapy], the case for vaping’s essential status is growing ever stronger,” said Pawsey.

“Vape retailers do not just provide the tools for harm-reduction, but also the expert advice and support which empowers consumers to make a positive change. Now, more than ever, we should be safeguarding the country’s public health; vaping is an important part of that. Let’s support this sector, and all those who rely on it, by keeping vape stores open.”

Earlier this week, the U.K. Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) urged ministers to consider the essential status for vape stores.

“I have seen first-hand how U.K. vaping has risen to every challenge this year, with new safety measures, business practices and routines,” said John Dunne, director general of the UKVIA in a statement. “The passion for helping people in this industry is unrelenting, no smoker looking to quit is on their own. However, with government help we can do even more, because for many people the support of a face-to-face experience is vital.

“If the government does not grant essential status to vaping the impact on sales from stores could be as much as 45 percent-50 percent down,” said Doug Mutter, manufacturing and compliance director at VPZ.