asked the Minister for Trade whether he has received a report from the West Midlands county council regarding the import of unsafe Christmas lights; and if he will take action to protect the public against the import of unsafe goods.

Just before Christmas I received a report from the West Midlands county council about certain Christmas lights that were considered not to comply with the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1975 and 1976. I immediately issued a general warning notice drawing attention to the West Midlands report.Most electrical appliances for domestic use, whether imported or not, must comply with the regulations. There appear, however, to be too many appliances on sale that do not comply with these or other safety requirements. I am therefore reviewing the consumer safety legislation and hope to make a statement in the near future.

asked the Minister for Trade if he has studied the evidence supplied to him by the hon. Member for Cannock of the sale of dangerous Christmas tree lights in the West Midlands; and if he will make a statement.

Yes, I have considered the press cutting dated 18 December sent to me by the hon. Member about some allegedly unsafe Christmas tree lights. Before Christmas I received a report from the West Midlands county council that these lights did not comply with the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1975 and 1976 and I issued a general warning notice drawing attention to the West Midlands report. Enforcement of the regulations is a matter for the local trading standards authority.