DARLINGTON Council’s Trading Standards department have created guidance to help retailers follow laws surrounding the sale of e-cigarettes.

E-cigarettes have become a popular alternative to cigarette smoking and are on sale in Darlington supermarkets, specialist shops and pharmacies.

There are regulations in place about with product safety, labelling and unfair trading practices and the Government is also consulting on regulations that will make it an offence to sell e-cigarettes to people under the age of 18, or on their behalf.

Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy and regeneration, said: “It’s essential for businesses to be aware of legislation surrounding the sale of e-cigarettes, as well as getting up to speed with changes to age-restricted sales.”

E-cigarette guidance for retailers is available on the Darlington Borough Council website darlington.gov.uk/businessadvice

Retailers can also contact Trading Standards on 01325 388799 or trading.standards@darlington.gov.uk.

YOUR RIGHTS AS A CONSUMER OF E-CIGARETTES

The smoking ban introduced in the UK in 2007 does not include the use of e-cigarettes.

E-cigarettes can be "vaped" in any indoor or outdoor space accessible by the general public, from the local pub to the park. However, property owners and/or managers retain the right to decide whether vaping will be permitted on their premises.