§ Mr. SpearingTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment what assessment she has made of experience outwith the United Kingdom on legislation governing the conditions under which solvent-based paints can be used and the circumstances under which they can be applied; and if she will review the United Kingdom legislation in the light of the assessment.
§ Mr. McLoughlinNo assessment has been made of experience outside the United Kingdom on legislation governing the use of solvent-based paints. However, the dangers presented by these products are under regular review, both within the United Kingdom by the Health and Safety Executive and within the European Community through expert working groups involving representatives from all member states. In the United Kingdom, the use of solvent-based paints at work is subject to the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1988. Specific guidance published by the HSE recommends the substitution of solvent-based paints by less harmful substances, such as water-based paints.