MEPs push for tougher ban on PVC in toys

Date: 08/06/2000

By Renée Cordes

MEPS are demanding that the scope of the EU's proposed ban on phthalates in baby toys should be extended.

The move comes as the European Parliament prepares to vote next week on the European Commission's proposal to make its temporary ban on the use of six phthalates in PVC toys permanent. The ban, which covers toys intended to be put into the mouths of children under the age of three, was prompted by concern that the softening agents could cause long-term liver, kidney and testicular damage.

The Commission has also called for mandatory labels on toys containing phthalates which are intended for children under three but are not specifically designed for oral use.

But MEPS are concerned that the the EU executive's proposals do not go far enough. Many favour a full ban on all other phthalates, although none of these are currently used in toys. They are also seeking to widen the scope of the ban to include products not specifically meant to be sucked, arguing children have a tendency to put all toys into their mouths.

Supporters of the move say that given the absence of a reliable method for testing the toxicity of phthalates, it is better to err on the side of caution.

MEPs are demanding that the scope of the EU's proposed ban on phthalates in baby toys should be extended.