'Deeply alarming' vape sales to children uncovered

Seven out of nine businesses in Nottingham sold vapes to children without asking for proof of age.

Police and Trading Standards officers revealed the results earlier this month, after volunteers under 18 were supervised as part of the crackdown.

Nottinghamshire Police said the businesses that failed the test purchases were under further investigation and may face formal action, including prosecution and additional compliance checks.

Matt Shannon, executive member for community protection, neighbourhoods and equalities at Nottingham City Council, said the "high failure rate" was "deeply alarming" and showed too many retailers were "failing in their legal responsibilities".

Under the Nicotine Inhaling Products Regulations 2015, it is illegal to sell such products to anyone under 18, and shops are expected to operate Challenge 25 policies, asking for ID from anyone who appears younger than 25.

The crackdown supported Nottinghamshire Police's Operation Reclaim, which is focusing on crime in Nottingham city centre.

Ch Insp Kylie Davies, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: "Any business which fails to act responsibly will be dealt with accordingly.

"We have already closed four vape shops in and around the city centre as part of Op Reclaim, which is tackling criminality, including business crime."

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