Ministers in England have been informed that banning disposable vapes could lead to many users reverting to cigarette smoking.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) reported that vape usage in England rose by over 400% between 2012 and 2023, with 9.1% of the population using these products.

A proposal to ban single-use vapes aims to reduce environmental damage but may push 29% of vapers back to smoking, according to a Defra impact assessment.

The legislation, planned for introduction under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, seeks to restrict vape and tobacco sales, raising the legal smoking age for those born after 2009.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting intends to present the bill before Christmas.

Labour MP Mary Glindon criticized a proposed tax increase on vape liquid, arguing it could hinder smoking cessation efforts.

Recent studies show significant growth in vaping among non-smokers, particularly young adults aged 18 to 24, with 1 million adults in England vaping despite never smoking regularly.

An IARC study suggested banning tobacco sales to those born between 2006 and 2010 could prevent 1.2 million lung cancer deaths by 2095.

Additionally, nearly 5 million single-use vapes are discarded weekly in the UK, exacerbating environmental concerns.

A government spokesperson emphasized the proposed changes aim to protect youth from nicotine addiction and promote a smoke-free future, noting a significant increase in vaping among 11- to 15-year-olds in recent years.