§ Mr. Gwilym Robertsasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection what study he has made of the selling and importation of dangerous toys; what representations on dangerous toys he has received recently and if he will classify them in the Official Report; what steps he is taking to minimise the danger from such toys; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MaclennanAll toys offered for sale in Great Britain, whether imported or of domestic manufacture, must comply with the Toys (Safety) Regulations 1974, which cover the major hazards so far associated with toys. The regulations are kept constantly under review. My Department is also involved in negotiations to draw up a comprehensive European576W Standard for toys which will form the basis of an EEC Directive on toy safety. In addition, all complaints to my investigated and, when justified, taken up with the manufacturer or importer. In Department about dangerous toys are the last six months my Department has received 35 such complaints and has found l6 of these to be justified. Most of the toys involved have now been modified or withdrawn from the market, following action by my Department. The hazards identified were as follows:
Toxicity 2 Sharp metal, edges and points 3 Suffocation 7 Mechanical 2 Flammability 2