§ Mr. BoyesTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what plans he has to introduce legislation further to extend consumer safety.
§ Mr. ButcherThe safety of consumers has been greatly improved by the implementation of the Consumer Protection Act 1987. From 1 October 1987, under the general safety requirement, it became a criminal offence to supply any consumer product that is not reasonably safe. 571W The Act also implements the European Community directive on product liability and means that from 1 March 1988 it will be much easier for people damaged by defective products to obtain redress through the courts.
In addition to the general safety requirement, the safety of a range of products is covered by specific regulations. New regulations are to be introduced covering the flammability of upholstered furniture and bedding; and it is the intention to introduce further regulations to implement a number of EC directives, including those covering the safety of toys and certain electrical products.