To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he takes to ensure that imported swimming aids for children meet British safety regulations; and if he will make a statement.

The requirements of the Toys (Safety) Regulations 1989 apply to arm bands with fewer than two air chambers. Other swimming aids are subject to the general safety requirement of the Consumer Protection Act 1987. Trading standards departments of local authorities which have responsibility for enforcing consumer safety legislation have the necessary powers to take action against unsafe goods.