From October 1, several rule changes will take effect across Scotland, affecting vaping, junk food promotions, and driving test swaps. These changes, rolled out by governmental bodies, will directly impact the day-to-day lives of Scots.
Vape tax adds £2.20 per 10ml
The UK Government will introduce a Vaping Products Duty on items containing vape liquid from October 1. For every 10ml of vape liquid, a tax of £2.20 will be added to the price, plus VAT. This works out at 22p per ml applied to products such as bottle e-liquids, prefilled pod kits, big-puff disposables, nic shots, and 0mg liquids.
The measure aims to reduce the affordability and appeal of vaping, especially among young people and non-smokers. Retailers have until March 31, 2027, to sell through existing stock before the new tax hits prices. Once that happens, new products will carry a tax stamp.
According to experts, heavy vape users will feel the biggest impact. Those using 10ml a day could add £963 to their annual spend on vapes.
Junk food restrictions in stores
As part of the Scottish Government's push for healthier choices, supermarkets and local stores in Scotland will face restrictions on how they promote and display "junk food" from October 1, both in-store and online. These restrictions apply to food and drinks high in sugar, fat, and salt, which may make it harder for shoppers to find cakes, sweets, crisps, and soft drinks with added sugar.
Larger stores will no longer display less healthy products in prominent locations like aisle ends, checkouts, or shop entrances. Supermarkets will also reduce the number and types of price promotions on these products, meaning fewer multi-buy deals such as 'buy two for £10' or 'buy one get one free'. More promotions will shift to healthier alternatives, and some companies will no longer offer free refills for sugary drinks. These restrictions apply only to pre-packed food and drink.
Driving test swap rules change
The DVSA has announced changes to swapping driving tests from October 1, aiming to make the process "smoother and less stressful" for learners. Previously, one learner had to phone the DVSA and be put on hold while the other got on the line to confirm the swap. Under the new rules, the second learner must also call the DVSA on the same working day for confirmation.
To swap, the request must be made at least 10 full working days before the earliest of the two tests. Learners can only swap with someone at the same test centre, one of the three nearest test centres, or the first test centre they originally booked at. Additionally, swaps are only allowed with those who have the same type of test booking, including weekday or evening tests, or extended time for a health condition, disability, or learning difficulty.
