HC Deb 20 January 1984 vol 52 c360W
Mr. Janner

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) whether, in view of the danger of children swallowing scented products such as rubbers and pens, he will ban the sale of these pending full investigation;

(2) whether he will institute an inquiry into the dangers of the sale to children of scented rubbers, pens and other products.

Mr. Alexander Fletcher

I am urgently considering what action might be needed to deal with any likely suffocation risk, particularly to young children. from scented articles such as erasers.

Mr. Janner

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) whether, in view of the dangers of the sniffing of glue and other toxic substances, he will carry out research into the effects of the availability on the market of deliberately scented rubbers, pens and other products;

(2) whether he will introduce controls over deliberately scented rubbers, pens and other products intended to introduce school children to sniffing for pleasure.

Mr. Alexander Fletcher

I have no evidence that the availability of these products leads to glue sniffing. But, as stated in my earlier answer to the hon. and learned Member, I am urgently considering whether any action needs to be taken.

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