Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what evidence her Department has on the impact on health of toxic smoke inhalation generated by chemical flame retardants.

In developing the draft proposals for the new approach to the fire safety of domestic upholstered furniture, the Government considered a wide range of evidence, including evidence submitted during the Environmental Audit Committee’s inquiry into Toxic Chemicals in Everyday Life. The proposals reflect the need to maintain and improve fire safety whilst reducing the risks posed by chemical flame retardants.

The Government is currently consulting on these proposals and welcomes feedback from stakeholders.