§ Mr. Austin MitchellTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations he has received on the brake systems of children's bicycles with a saddle height of less than 25 in.; what representations he is making to the EEC Commissioner on this matter; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ForthRepresentations have been made by the cycle industry about the level of safety and appropriateness of the European harmonised standard EN71 in respect of the braking performance tests specifically in relation to cycles with saddle heights between 435 mm and 635 mm. I am concerned by the suggestions that the tests may not provide the level of safety required by the essential requirements of the European directive on the safety of toys. The United Kingdom delegation to the European Committee for Standardisation sought to have the braking test specified in the International Standard Organisation standard 8098 incorporated into the harmonised standards, but there was insufficient support for this from other CEN delegates.
The matter is being urgently considered. If the Department concludes that any harmonised standard does not meet the essential requirements the procedure is for the Government to refer the matter to the standing committee set up under the directive for re-consideration. If appropriate, we will proceed accordingly. In the meantime, my officials have told the manufacturers that, when toys do not conform in whole or in part to harmonised standards, type approval may be obtained from an approved body. The approved body is concerned to establish that the model submitted for approval meets the essential requirements, and in so doing may, if the harmonised standard is inappropriate, have regard to other appropriate tests.