To ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will (a) issue guidance on the maximum strength of tanning beds available for hire or sale and (b) propose legislation prohibiting the use of tanning beds by under 16s. (120490)

At a recent meeting between the European Commission and representatives of member states enforcement authorities (commonly known as the LVD ADCO) for electrical equipment safety it was agreed to accept a report from the scientific committee on consumer products which among other recommendations suggested the limit value for the maximum effective radiance for tanning appliances should be 0.3 Watts/m².

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides guidelines for customers and operators of tanning beds, which recommends that tanning beds should not be used by young people under 16 years. The Department and the HSE are in discussion about whether this guidance needs to be strengthened.