What discussions has the Welsh Government had with the UK Government around the impact on Wales of: a) the removal of the "aim to permit"; and b) plans to extend closure orders for shops found to be selling illegal tobacco or similar products for up to twelve months?
The Welsh Government is committed to reducing the harms associated with gambling and tobacco use, particularly those arising from illegal tobacco and nicotine products.
A key provision of the Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026 is the introduction of a licensing scheme for retailers in Wales selling tobacco, vaping, and nicotine products. The Welsh Government is committed to making use of these new powers as soon as possible to maximise wider public health benefits and I am currently considering the timescales for its implementation.
Regarding proposals to extend closure orders for shops found to be selling illegal tobacco or similar products for up to twelve months, UK Government officials engaged Welsh Government officials in June 2026, to note the upcoming UK Government consultation on plans to extend closure orders, under the Crime and Policing Act. Welsh Government officials signposted key Welsh stakeholders to UK Government officials, to allow them the opportunity to respond to this consultation directly.
In relation to the proposed removal of the “aim to permit” approach, Welsh Government has had an initial discussion, on 14 August, with the UK Government on the work underway and potential implications for Wales.
Planning officials shared relevant Welsh Government contacts with the UK Government and requested the need for further engagement once its proposals have been developed in greater detail to properly assess consequences and impact.