New warnings for magnetic toys

Consumer Affairs Minister Gareth Thomas said the Government is consulting on the warning, which will better protect children from unsafe toys. "We want toys containing small magnets to carry new safety warnings,” he said. “The recalls last year highlighted the dangers that they can pose. "The warnings will help parents make informed decisions about which toys to buy and to be on their guard in supervising how their children play with them." The new safety warnings will be a temporary measure. They will remain in force until the European Commission and Member States complete comprehensive reviews of toy safety controls. The warning will read "Warning! This toy contains magnets or magnetic components. Magnets sticking together or becoming attached to a metallic object inside the human body can cause serious or fatal injury. Seek immediate medical help if magnets are swallowed or inhaled." It will have to be clearly visible to consumers on the packaging or toy at the point of purchase and will apply to all toys in the supply chain, as well as those not yet placed on the market. The proposal is likely to come into effect from July.