The Common’s science and technology committee noted that e-cigarettes are estimated to be 95% less harmful than conventional ones, in a report published on 17 August.
It suggested that they no longer be treated in the same way.
Specifically, the report recommended that the NHS set a policy allowing mental health facilities to allow e-cigarettes and noted that there is evidence they are an effective tool in getting people to stop smoking tobacco.
It also suggested that policies on how e-cigarettes are taxed and used in public places be reviewed.
Committee chair Norman Lamb said: “E-cigarettes are less harmful than conventional cigarettes, but current policy and regulations do not sufficiently reflect this and businesses, transport providers and public places should stop viewing conventional and e-cigarettes as one and the same. There is no public health rationale for doing so.
“Concerns that e-cigarettes could be a gateway to conventional smoking, including for young non-smokers, have not materialised. If used correctly, e-cigarettes could be a key weapon in the NHS’s stop smoking arsenal.”
E-cigarettes should be licensed as medicines to allow doctors to prescribe them as stop-smoking aids, the report recommended.
Chief executive of the charity Action on Smoking and Health Deborah Arnott said: “Licensed products could transform the public’s understanding of e-cigarettes and help many more smokers see vaping as a viable alternative to smoking.”
