Macclesfield MP votes for smoking and vape changes

By Alex Greensmith

17th Apr 2024 | Local News

Macclesfield's MP has voted for a bill that would 'ban' smoking for people born after January 1 2009.

David Rutley MP was one of 178 Conservative MPs to vote for the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, as it passed by 383 votes to 67.

57 MPs voted against the bill, including Liz Truss and Suella Braverman. Ex-PM Boris Johnson criticised the bill for being against freedom and conservatism, calling it 'nuts'.

The bill will also stifle the ability of companies to advertise vapes to children, which Rt Hon Victoria Atkins MP, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care said were sold to kids at "pocket money prices."

A no smoking sign at Macclesfield Bus Station. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

Macclesfield Nub News has submitted a Freedom of Information request to find out how many local shops have been caught selling tobacco or e-cigarette products to children.

While Mr Rutley does vote in-line with the government more than now, Conservative MPs were given a free vote on the bill. This means they were not ordered to vote in a certain way, so this vote is a view is of Mr Rutley, with no involvement from the whip.

The changes are expected to take effect in 2027.

6.4 million people in the UK smoke, according to the ONS.

A no smoking sign at the Westminster Road Bus Shelter, Bollinbrook, Macclesfield. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

Supporters of the bill have indicated that it will take stresses off the NHS, by reducing the risk of health conditions caused by smoking.

The government will bring in new £100 fines for shops in England which sell cigarettes and vapes to kids. Proceeds from this fine will be retaiend in the local economy, and held by local authorities. Courts can already fine £2500 for shops who are caught in this manner.

Westminster estimates £30 million will be spent on enforcing the new laws.

The aim is to create a 'smoke-free generation', and follows a similar law adopted by the New Zealand government.

A no smoking sign at Poynton tip.

Earlier this year, Cheshire East was named the 'seventh-worst area in Britain to quit smoking'.

The new bill follows prior plans to ban disposable vapes in the country in a bid to tackle plastic waste. How this will affect Macclesfield's ten vape shops, remains to be seen. The plan to ban disposable vapes will be in place by this time next year, and this will not change the sale of non-disposable vapes.

Macclesfield Nub News has reached out to Mr Rutley and his team for comment.