Member

We have to understand that while cigars may cause harm, they are not one of the things being taken up or encouraged among young people. That evidence ought to give us some pause. Many of the businesses we are concerned with are not vast multinationals, as I keep saying, or exploitative operations; they are small, long-established firms which contribute to our economy, to skilled employment and to local communities. Yet without proper engagement and consultation, there is a danger of them being caught in the crossfire of well-intentioned legislation aimed at curbing smoking. I hope that the Minister can agree that that is not an intended consequence of a Bill aimed at tobacco and vape firms.