§ Mrs. Joyce Butlerasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection what inquiries he has had from consumers about the possible health hazards from using hairdriers containing asbestos; if he will make a requirement for all consumer products containing asbestos to be so labelled; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John FraserThere have been very few such inquiries. Hairdriers are not at present covered by the voluntary scheme introduced by the Asbestos Information Committee and the Asbestosis Research Council for the labelling of a range of products containing asbestos with which precautions should be taken. Several manufacturers have, I understand, already announced that they are ceasing to use asbestos in their hairdriers, but I am seeking expert advice on whether there are measures that it would be appropriate for me to take.