The HSC has welcomed the UK deputy prime minister's announcement that a ban on the importation, supply and use in Great Britain of chrysotile (white asbestos) will be in force on 24 November 1999. Last year, HSC carried out a widespread consultation on proposals to ban chrysotile. Responses indicated overwhelming support for the ban. Draft regulations were recommended to ministers who have agreed that the Asbestos (Prohibitions) (Amendment) Regulations (SI 2373/99) will come into force in three months' time. The domestic regulations will implement a European Directive five years ahead of its deadline. A technical amendment to the EC's Marketing & Use Directive became EC law this month. This requires all Member States to cease the marketing and use of chrysotile after 1 January 2005, but allows individual countries to implement a ban beforehand.
