Question to the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, whether he plans to increase testing and import controls for products at risk of asbestos contamination.

The Office for Product Safety and Standards oversees and coordinates the UK’s product safety framework which covers products sold in-store and online, and activity at the border. Businesses placing products on the UK market must ensure they’re safe and free from asbestos and OPSS has published business guidance on controls they need to have in place, including testing.

To date 69 recalls of products have been recalled as a result of action by OPSS and local authorities, including at the border. OPSS are continuing their market surveillance activities and will take action if businesses are not meeting their legal obligations.