§ Mr. Ian Evansasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection when the proposed regulations relating to lead and cadmium in enamel ware will be made.
Mr. Alan WilliamsThe Vitreous Enamel-ware (Safety) Regulations 1976 (S.I. 1976/454) which have been laid before Parliament today prescribe limits450W for extractable lead and cadmium in the food contacting surfaces of vitreous enamel tableware and kitchenware.
The Regulations, which are based on the British Standard for enamel-ware (BS 5180:1974) have been made under the Consumer Protection Act 1961 and come into operation, for all sections of the trade, on 1st June this year.
Both substances are cumulative in the human body. Excessive ingestion of lead can result in chronic lead poisoning. Children are particularly susceptible. Ingestion of substantial amounts of cadmium over a long period may cause kidney damage.