Green MSP calls for lab tests on disposable vapes
Gillian Mackay MSP says the risk to users is "too great"
A Scottish Green MSP is calling for compulsory lab tests on disposable vapes, as part of a campaign to ban single use devices.
Gillian Mackay is spearheading the change, and both Westminster and Holyrood are considering the future of disposable vapes.
Data from the government found as many as 22% of under 18s in Scotland may have tried vaping.
Ms Mackay said: “The risk to users from unscrupulous suppliers is too great to leave to chance, so we urgently need to get a grip of this ridiculous situation where it is the producers themselves who check their own homework.”
As well as cutting down the harms caused by legal vapes, compulsory laboratory tests, the MSP claimed, would also impact on the number of fake devices which are sold.
She added: “The risk to users from unscrupulous suppliers is too great to leave to chance, so we urgently need to get a grip of this ridiculous situation where it is the producers themselves who check their own homework," she said.
"What I am calling for is a UK-wide scheme where independent, verified labs carry out tests to crack down on harmful chemicals and dodgy construction, which could leave anyone in danger on a number of levels.
"There is nothing like enough real checks being carried out and while a potential ban is being considered, preventative action must be taken now, including a licensing scheme for importers to deal with the issue."