§ Dr. Roger Thomasasked the Secretary of State for Trade whether any steps have been taken since May 1979 to prevent accidental poisoning in children by household and garden preparations; and whether, in view of the 15 per cent. increase in such cases of accidental poisoning of children under five years over the last 12 months, he will introduce further measures during the current Session of Parliament.
§ Mrs. Sally OppenheimI know of no figures to support the statement that there has been an increase in child poisoning in the last 12 months of the kind referred to. However, as I have made clear, I am most concerned about the many accidents to children from poisoning that arise from products used in and around the home. As I announced in the House on 13 April in reply to a question from my hon. Friend the Member for Epsom and Ewell (Mr. Hamilton), the best way of preventing such accidents is by suitable warning labels. I intend to introduce draft safety regulations on the matter during the current Session of Parliament.