This week the Tobacco & Bill moves Into House of Lords Report Stage – a Major Development.
On 20 February 2026, the UK Parliament confirmed that the Tobacco and Vapes Bill will enter Report Stage in the House of Lords on Tuesday 24 February, with further sessions scheduled for 3 March and 5 March (subject to change).
This is a significant step, marking the beginning of the final, detailed scrutiny in the Lords.
Key Amendments Under Consideration
Peers will debate a wide range of proposed changes on day one of Report Stage, including:
- Raising the tobacco and vape sales age to 21
- Introducing specific customer age-verification requirements
- Granting powers to prohibit certain sales of tobacco/vape products
- Requiring transparency of tobacco sales data to support health policy
- Establishing a Youth Vaping & Waste Impacts Taskforce.
This indicates a widening policy scope beyond the generational ban, with increased emphasis on enforcement, environmental concerns, and retailer obligations.
Ongoing Amendments Published Throughout February
Parallel Parliament recorded a steady stream of new amendments lodged in the House of Lords throughout February:
6 February: 1 new amendment
10 February: 3 new amendments
11 February: 2 new amendments
12 February: 9 new amendments
17 February: 69 new amendments
The volume and pace of new proposals indicate significant activity and lobbying ahead of the Lords Report Stage, and strong interest among peers in shaping the final form of the Bill.
Summary for Subscribers
Over the past two weeks, the Tobacco and Vapes Bill has made substantial progress. With the House of Lords Report Stage commencing on 24 February and a flurry of new amendments tabled, the Bill is entering its decisive phase. Retailers, vape shops, hospitality venues, and responsible authorities should continue preparing for the likely introduction of:
- The generational tobacco ban,
- New retail licensing powers,
- Stricter advertising, flavour, packaging and display controls,
- Possible age‑verification and environmental obligations, and
- Enhanced enforcement powers including fixed penalties.
Full Royal Assent may follow shortly after the Lords complete their scrutiny—depending on Commons agreement to any amendments.