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Written question asked by James McMurdock (Independent (affiliation)) on Friday, 28 August 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 2 September 2026. It was answered by Kate Dearden (Labour) on Tuesday, 8 September 2026 on behalf of the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade.

Toys and Games: Asbestos

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, with reference to the Office for Product Safety and Standards news story entitled Stronger asbestos controls needed to keep kids safe, published on 20 July 2026, what assessment his Department has made of the causes of the recent increase in product recalls due to asbestos contamination.

Answer

OPSS has published guidance for businesses on assuring the products they import and distribute are asbestos-free. OPSS works with local authorities to ensure and monitor the effectiveness of recalls and has regular dialogue with key businesses and representative organisations for the toy, retail and online sectors most affected by this issue.

OPSS works with agencies across Government, and with industry, to investigate the supply chain, to understand the origin of materials and their potential routes into the UK market. Raising awareness and understanding has prompted stronger due diligence and resulted in more action to remove products from the market.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
25551
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Asbestos Toys and games
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk