Scottish government to review second-hand effects of vaping

The Law Society of Scotland as well as pressure group Children in Scotland wanted to see legislation banning smoking in cars extended to include e-cigarettes.

However, MSPs unanimously voted in favour of the legislation, which provides for fines of up to £100 for anyone caught smoking in a car with a passenger under the age of 18.

The Law Society had suggested the Smoking Prohibition (Children in Motor Vehicles) Bill be amended to include e-cigarettes but failed in its attempt.

Public health minister Maureen Watt said: “Smoking continues to be the biggest cause of preventable death in Scotland. The rationale for banning smoking in cars is based on the well-established evidence of the harms caused by second-hand smoke in enclosed spaces.

“As yet, the evidence does not suggest that there is significant harm from second-hand vapour in enclosed public spaces. Therefore, the Scottish government has no current plans to legislate on the use of e-cigarettes in enclosed spaces, including cars. We will continue to monitor emerging evidence.”

Addressing ministers, the Law Society had said: “We would suggest the provisions be extended to prohibit the use of electronic cigarettes.

“While we recognise that some may believe that nicotine vapour products may be a safer alternative to conventional cigarettes, more information is still required on the long-term risks and benefits to public health in general and particularly to children and young persons.”

Children in Scotland told ministers: “While we understand that the Scottish government is currently investigating further controls for e-cigarettes and how they may be covered under existing legislation for cigarettes at this time, there is not sufficient evidence to show the effects of second-hand smoke in e-cigarettes and therefore they should be regulated until proven to be safe to children.”