MPs who called for restrictions on e-cigarettes to be relaxed have been criticised over their links to the vaping industry.

In a controversial report, they said bans on vaping in public places – such as in hospitals and restaurants or on buses – should be considered.

The report, by the Commons science and technology committee, also said that ministers should carry out a review to make it easier to get the devices on the prescription.

MPs who called for restrictions on e-cigarettes to be relaxed have been criticised over their links to the vaping industry (stock image)

It emerged yesterday that the committee's chairman, Norman Lamb, spoke at an industry forum held by the UK Vaping Industry Association. The forum focused on how to boost the market for e-cigarettes.

He was also photographed next to John Dunne, the association's director, at the launch of another report and told the audience: 'I was horrified when the EU went down the route of health regulation [of vaping products]... I thought it was a complete own goal.'

Professor Simon Capewell, of Liverpool University, said: 'The committee has concentrated solely on 'experts' who are e-cig champions.'

Commons science and technology committee chairman Norman Lamb (pictured) spoke at an industry forum held by the UK Vaping Industry Association

Mr Lamb said yesterday that it was unfair to say the committee has a pro-vaping bias.

'I reject this assertion,' he said. 'The committee carefully considered evidence from more than 90 organisations including a range of academics, NHS professionals, NICE [the clinical guidelines watchdog], and government departments to inform the report.

'It is my responsibility as chair of this committee to speak to a range of organisations and individuals about our work.'