§ Dr. Twinnasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether he will require elctrical imports to bear a recognised safety mark be fore being released for general distribution.
§ Mr. FletcherA requirement for electrical imports to bear a recognised safety mark before being released for general distribution would contravene the European Communities Council directive of 19 February 1973 on the harmonisation of the laws of member states relating to electrical equipment designed for use within certain voltage limits (the low voltage directive).
The British Electrotechnical Approvals Board issues safety marks for many types of electrical goods, both imported and United Kingdom produced, and these are widely recognised. It is in the interests of traders to supply goods so marked on a voluntary basis. The Government will continue to encourage the wider use of recognised safety marks.