Hi-tech, safe ‘cigarette’ may soon be up in smoke

It’s Nov 1, the traditional day for quitting bad habits, but e-cigs, which look real but are harmless, may soon be banned, says Jason Walsh

IT’S been years since smoking was cool, but neither that nor a ban on smoking in public buildings has stubbed out the habit. Electronic cigarettes might, if they aren’t banned, and it’s Nov 1, the day designated for quitting bad habits.

Invented by Chinese pharmacist Hon Lik, e-cigs use a battery to atomise a liquid solution and deliver a smoke-like vapour to the lungs of the user.