British King Announces Tobacco and E-cigarette Bill Restrictions

According to The Guardian's report on July 17, the British government confirmed in a speech by the King on Wednesday (17th) that the new Labour government will introduce the Tobacco and E-Cigarette Act, further restricting the sale and marketing of e-cigarettes. Scotland has agreed to cooperate with the UK government in implementing new measures to control e-cigarettes.

Deputy First Minister of Scotland Kate Forbes stated that the Scottish government welcomes this new approach. Previously, there has been ongoing conflict between the Scottish National Party government and the Conservative Party in the UK Parliament.

In the 40 proposals announced by the king in his speech on Wednesday, 24 are expected to impact Scotland.

When asked about the speech, Stephen Flynn, leader of the Scottish National Party at Westminster, expressed a contrasting opinion, calling the King's speech "timid" and a missed opportunity.

Flint and Forbes are widely considered as strong competitors for future leadership of the Scottish National Party, but the former suffered a devastating defeat in the election, losing over 500,000 votes and 39 parliamentary seats to the Labour Party, significantly weakening his appeal.

The Scottish people voted in Westminster for clear and significant change, giving the Labour government a huge mandate to deliver on these changes, so they missed this opportunity, which is very disappointing.

In contrast, Forbes stated that Keir Starmer kept his promise and collaborated with the Scottish National Party in Edinburgh.

The Prime Minister has expressed his desire to reset the relationship with the Scottish government, respect devolution arrangements, and cooperate constructively. I am pleased to see this approach reflected in the King's speech, and we will support opportunities that will help improve the lives of the Scottish people.

The Scottish National Party and the Conservative Party have repeatedly clashed on controversial legislation, with sources from the UK government stating that Whitehall officials last week reached out to colleagues in Edinburgh to seek pre-agreement on several bills outlined in the King's speech.

Proposed legislation within the new British framework includes a ban on tobacco products, with Scotland needing to agree on measures to control the sale of e-cigarettes to young people.