§ Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) if he will issue guidelines on the use of cosmetic lasers;
(2) if he will institute controls to ensure that only medically qualified or trained people will be able to purchase and use cosmetic lasers.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeThe use of lasers for cosmetic purposes may involve medical procedures. As I said in replies to the hon. Members for Coventry, North-East (Mr. Park) and Redcar (Mr. Tinn) on 15 365W June—[Vol. 25, c. 250–254]—a working party has been set up to advise on the safety precautions necessary when using lasers for medical purposes. The Health and Safety Executive, in consultation with the Department, is considering the need for guidelines on the use of lasers for cosmetic procedures in beauty parlours and other similar commercial establishments. Any such guidelines would cover the training needs of staff.