§ Mr. Tom Clarkeasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what regulations control the packaging of bleaches, weedkiller, drain cleaners and other toxic household goods to ensure the safety of children.
§ Mr. MaudeThe Classification, Packaging and Labelling of Dangerous Substances Regulations 1984, which came into operation on 12 December 1984, set out582W packaging and labelling requirements for hazardous household chemicals to warn parents to keep them away from small children. The Child Resistant Packaging (Safety) Regulations 1986, which come into force on 1 December this year, prescribe child resistant packaging for the more hazardous household chemicals, including weedkiller, drain cleaner, oven cleaner, white spirit and paint stripper. Whilst ordinary household bleach is only classified as an "irritant" and child resistant containers are not therefore mandatory, I understand that many suppliers are now using them of their own volition. I welcome this responsible action.