Updated EU cosmetics law makes consumers safer - Lynne

12.00.00am GMT Tue 24th Mar 2009

West Midlands LibDem MEP has welcomed a vote by the European Parliament today to update EU laws on cosmetics. The new rules aim to streamline existing regulations and increase the safety of products. Cosmetic products are broadly defined to include not only make-up but toiletries like soap and shampoo.

The safety proposals increase manufacturers' responsibility whilst cutting red tape. Instead of 27 different sets of national laws which implement the existing EU Directive slightly differently, there will just be one uniform regulation that makers have to comply with. Consumers will also be protected by 'product claims' rules to ensure that only the real effects of the product can be mentioned in advertising and labelling. The existing ban on animal testing is unaffected.

Speaking after the vote Liz Lynne, who is the Vice- President of the Parliament's Employment and Social Affairs Committee, said:

"EU legislation protecting users of cosmetics is one of its most important achievements. We all use these products on a daily basis, even just to wash our hands. Better regulation will prove less costly for manufacturers but safer for customers."

"One big improvement is the ban on the use of substances that are carcinogenic, mutagenic or harmful to reproduction. And the clampdown on false advertising claims will protect people's pockets as well as their skin, another useful EU contribution to surviving the recession."