MEP backs global labelling of chemicals
04 September 2008
In a debate in the European Parliament on the EU subscribing to the UN Globally Harmonised System (GHS) on the packaging and labelling of chemicals, Traditional Unionist MEP acknowledged the wisdom of ensuring warnings and hazards were universally identified, but warned against crippling small manufacturers with additional costs.
In the course of his remarks Mr Allister said:-
"It makes sense that as chemicals are manufactured and traded globally, the description of hazards on packaging should not differ between countries as this is both prejudicial to consumers and a disadvantage to those who accurately describe the hazard. However, I note that at present the Globally Harmonised System is not very global and operates in Japan and New Zealand. I do wonder whether other countries will follow the EU in embracing this system and what the impact could be for businesses in Europe if other countries do not.
In implementing these measures we need to strike a balance. Firstly, it is crucial that the over-classification of products does not confuse consumers or healthcare providers. And secondly, we need to implement these international obligations without placing unnecessary burdens on our businesses.
Indeed, a number of companies have raised concerns about the costs of implementation. The IT and training outlays and the repackaging costs will be great and we should not underestimate the cost to business. In particular, I refer to the overheads of SMEs that trade overseas for whom these costs may be too heavy to bear."
