HC Deb 13 December 1960 vol 632 cc187-8
7. Mr. Boyden

asked the President of the Board of Trade what action manufacturers and distributors of toys have reported to him to give effect to the advice of the Molony Committee to ensure that the eyes of toy animals are made secure and that lead-based paints are not used in toys.

Mr. N. Macpherson

My right hon. Friend is informed that before the Committee on Consumer Protection made its interim report, leaders of the industry had already advised their members to take all reasonable steps to avoid such hazards as the hon. Member describes. I understand that this advice is being generally followed, not only by manufacturers, but also by importers.

Mrs. Slater

In view of the danger of lead poisoning which has been proved in other toys for children, does not the hon. Gentleman think that there ought to be very definite regulations preventing lead being used which a child may suck and, therefore, harm its health?

Mr. Macpherson

As I have said, the trade has already given evidence of having complied with this. I would remind the hon. Lady that the Committee on Consumer Protection referred to this matter as one of the points on which we doubt the need for regulation".

8. Mr. Boyden

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has now received evidence from the Molony Committee on the banning of celluloid or other highly inflammable toys; and what action he proposes to take.

Mr. N. Macpherson

My right hon. Friend has not received any further observations from the Committee on this subject, which can best be considered in the context of the main recommendation of the Committee's Interim Report.

Mr. Boyden

Is it not probable that it will be necessary to ban this sort of toy? Should not the hon Gentleman give preliminary notice so that the manufacturers can take other steps?

Mr. Macpherson

As I told the hon. Member for Bradford, South (Mr. George Craddock) on 6th December, the President of the Board of Trade is considering with his right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Home Department what action he should take on the main recommendation in the Committee's Report.