While at this very moment the British press announces the victory of the “Leave” (departure of the European Union) in the referendum of Brexit in the United Kingdom, it will be necessary to wait a few hours to obtain the final results. But the questions are already being asked and we can now ask ourselves what consequence could Brexit have on e-cigarettes?
END OF THE APPLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN TOBACCO DIRECTIVE FOR THE UNITED KINGDOM
In the event of an exit from the United Kingdom with the agreements which follow, the English courts of justice would no longer be obliged to follow the judgments of the European courts. Clearly, this could have an impact on the interpretation of laws already harmonized, but also on future legislation in the United Kingdom. It therefore seems possible that in the event of a "Brexit", the European directive on tobacco will be called into question over time.
TIME AND STRONG COOPERATION
But let's be clear, nothing is done yet. And even if the British vote for Brexit, two years' notice will be required during which the exit deals will be negotiated. It is evident that whatever happens the UK retains an interest in maintaining a strong trading relationship with EU member states, so there is a good chance that it will continue to abide by EU law. by harmonizing the laws on the free movement of people, services, goods and capital.
Even with Brexit, the EU tobacco directive will continue to make its way into the UK and it will take a long time to hope for a hypothetical change.
