§ Mr. BurdenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what powers exist to license and regulate body piercing activities; what plans there are to empower local authorities to license and regulate body piercing activities; and if he will make a statement. [69476]
§ Ms JowellLocal authorities in London have powers either to licence or to register and inspect cosmetic body piercing businesses. Local authorities outside London do not have similar powers. Following the Department of Health/Welsh Office consultation exercise in October 1996, we have concluded that legislation to give local authorities outside London powers to regulate cosmetic body piercing businesses should be introduced, if Parliamentary time allows.