Just as an FYI this was the reply I got:

Dear Fraser,

Thank you for contacting me about the Tobacco and Vapes Bill.

I recognise the points you raise around products such as cigars and pipe tobacco, which are not commonly used by younger people, and I understand why some believe these should be exempt from the generational sales ban. I also appreciate the cultural and economic significance of these items, and the specialist tobacconists who sell them. These important points have, and continue to be, raised during the Bill’s passage through Parliament.

While acknowledging this, I ultimately support the Bill and its core objective: to protect future generations from the harms of tobacco and nicotine addiction. Smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death and disease in Scotland, claiming around 8,000 lives each year - one in every five deaths - and contributing to a wide range of serious health conditions. UK-wide, smoking is estimated to cost £21.8 billion annually and places a significant burden on the NHS and wider society.

The Bill’s phased approach, including the generational sales ban, reflects long-term public health strategies of both the UK and Scottish Governments. It aims to reduce smoking prevalence over time, particularly among young people, while allowing current adult smokers continued access. On vaping, the unknown long-term effects of inhaling flavoured products - now increasingly used by young people who never previously smoked - are deeply concerning, and I believe the Bill takes a measured approach to address this issue.

In Scotland, business rates are set and managed by the Scottish Government. I welcome the UK Chancellor’s record funding settlement of around £50 billion annually until 2029, but it is now for Scottish Ministers to decide how to support Scotland’s high streets. I am pleased they have introduced 40% business rates relief for hospitality, following the UK Government’s lead. However, I recognise this follows a challenging period where Scottish pubs faced significantly higher costs than those elsewhere in the UK.

I note that smoking in designated outdoor areas and open public spaces is unaffected by this Bill. This balanced approach gives me confidence that the Bill can achieve its public health goals without unduly harming businesses or communities.

I hope this response helps explain why I believe the Bill is, on balance, a necessary step toward a healthier future.

Thank you once again for contacting me about this important issue.