§ Mr. ReedTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what representations he has received about the sale of non-prescription contact lenses; and if he will make a statement. [70166]
§ Mr. DenhamOnly plano lenses may be sold without prescription. Both ophthalmologists and opticians have let us know of their concern that the fashion for wearing plano tinted contact lenses could endanger eye health unless retailers know how to fit and care for the lenses. Retailers are required to provide appropriate advice to the purchaser on the care, maintenance warnings and precautions as well as the use of the products they sell. The Department of Trade and Industry is responsible for enforcement under the Consumer Protection Act 1987 and the Department's Medical Devices Agency will provide advice as necessary.