Part of 1. Questions to the First Minister – in the Senedd at 2:18 pm on 8 October 2024.
Thank you. Youth vaping is a growing concern in Rhondda. I've been contacted by angry residents regarding a new vape store that's recently opened in Treorchy. Like most other vape stores, it has illuminated signs that are out of keeping with the high street. It has a double-fronted display of bright-coloured vapes that are clearly marketed towards young people, and it's on the main route to both the primary and comprehensive schools. Local councillor Bob Harris has made representations to Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council planning and planning enforcement to no avail. We also visited Treorchy Comprehensive School last week, who will continue their work on raising awareness around the dangers of vaping for young people.
First Minister, what further action can you take to support local communities through reviews of planning permissions and regulations for vape stores, especially store names and signage? And what more can be done to tackle the branding and marketing of vapes so that they're less appealing to young people? Also, is there scope for a broader Wales-wide campaign across schools to address youth vaping more robustly?