The protection of young people from harmful products is a top priority for the Trading Standards team at Barking and Dagenham Council, who last month carried out a test purchasing operation which involved two teenagers aged 13 and 14 trying to buy vapes containing nicotine from local shops.

Out of 11 premises tested, three sold to the youngsters and now face being prosecuted for breaking the law under the Nicotine Inhaling Products (Age of Sale and Proxy Purchasing) Regulations 2015.

Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety said: “It’s outrageous that these three businesses think it is okay to sell vapes to children as young as 13.

“We need to protect our young people and do our absolute best to stop them getting addicted to vapes, cigarettes and any other stronger substances.”

The council’s Trading Standards team will continue to run similar operations and make sure businesses are not selling knives, alcohol, tobacco or vapes to people under the age of 18.

If residents are concerned about traders, they should report them to Citizens Advice by calling 0808 223 1133 online at www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/get-more-help/if-you-need-more-help-about-a-consumer-issue/.