§ Mr. Cohenasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) if he will seek to prohibit the use of asbestos in textured ceiling and wall coatings; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what assessment he has made of the hazards arising from asbestos in textured ceiling and wall coatings in domestic premises; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FletcherThe presence of asbestos in textured ceilings and wall coatings does not present a significant hazard in situ, since this asbestos is bonded in the wallcovering. It does present a degree of hazard when the powder is mixed prior to application, and anyone doing this is advised to wear an industrial mask. It presents a rather more serious hazard when it is stripped off. The Health and Safety Executive advises that it is therefore best to leave the wallcovering in place and paint over it, rather than remove it or have it removed.
The brand leader and some other suppliers have eliminated asbestos as from August this year, and we are urgently discussing with the rest of the industry how they might follow suit. They will note the hon. Member's concern.