Criminal vape shops are laughing at the law - but Burnham's high street plans will hurt honest traders like me
A shop director urges the new Prime Minister to permanently close illicit vape shops to protect honest traders.Summary
In an opinion piece, Paul Cheema, a shop director, argues that criminal vape shops are undermining honest high street traders by selling illicit vapes and fake cigarettes, with current enforcement measures like raids and fines proving ineffective as offenders simply rebrand and reopen. He calls on the new Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, to implement stronger, permanent closure powers targeting the premises itself for repeat offenders, rather than just the individuals or temporary orders. Cheema suggests that such powers would deter landlords from renting to illegal operators and proposes funding enforcement teams through fines and seized stock revenue. He emphasizes the need for government support for shop workers who face abuse and violence, urging Burnham to deliver on his promise to revitalize high streets by shutting down dodgy shops for good.
(Source：London Broadcasting Company)
