§ Mr. Ashleyasked the Minister for Trade (1) if he will take steps to prohibit the use of asbestos in domestic goods and appliances, including cookers, simmering mats, ironing boards, plugging compounds and vinyl floor tiles;
(2) if he will introduce compulsory and adequate labelling of asbestos products and guidance for the general public.
§ Dr. VaughanAs explained in my reply to the hon. Member on 27 July (c. 480), the Council of the European Communities is considering a draft Directive on the marketing and use of asbestos. The provisions for compulsory labelling of asbestos products supplied in member States would include guidance about risks to health from use of the product. When the directive is adopted I intend to have these provisions implemented by safety regulations that would cover the supply of asbestos for consumer use.