§ Mr. Ashleyasked the Minister for Trade if he will take steps to require the compulsory labelling of asbestos products.
§ Dr. VaughanThe Council of the European Communities is considering a draft directive on the marketing and use of asbestos, which includes provision for the compulsory labelling of asbestos products supplied in the member States. The range of products to be covered by the labelling requirement and the precise wording of the label and accompanying instructions for safe use remain to be decided but if adopted in the form now generally agreed they will closely resemble in both content and appearance those now provided voluntarily by the United Kingdom asbestos industry. When the directive is adopted it is my intention to have it implemented by safety regulations that would cover supply for consumer use.