§ Mr. John Fraserasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what reports he has received from the consumer protection department of Lambeth borough council about the manufacture and distribution of poisonous soap; and whether he intends to take any action under the Consumer Safety Act to prevent the manufacture and distribution of such soaps.
§ Mr. FletcherThe trading standard officers of several London boroughs, including Lambeth, have reported instances of soaps containing mercury. Under the Cosmetic Products Regulations 1978 mercury, with minor exceptions, is prohibited as an ingredient in soaps for sale in the United Kingdom. Steps have now been taken by the local authorities concerned to remove the soaps and to prevent further supplies being made.