Overview

This bill aims to make it illegal to administer botulinum toxin and cosmetic fillers to anyone under 18 in England. It establishes penalties for individuals and businesses that violate this law, with exceptions for registered medical practitioners and other regulated health professionals acting under their direction, provided reasonable steps are taken to verify the individual's age.

Description

Key Provisions:

The bill outlines two main offences:

• Administering prohibited substances to a child: It's illegal to administer botulinum toxin or cosmetic fillers to anyone under 18 for cosmetic purposes in England. Exceptions are made for registered medical practitioners and other regulated health professionals (nurses, dentists, pharmacists) working under a doctor's supervision, if they have taken reasonable steps to confirm the person's age.
• Offences by businesses: Businesses are also liable if they, or someone working for them who isn't an approved professional, administers these substances to an underage person, or arranges for such administration to take place. A defense exists if the business owner took all reasonable precautions.

The bill defines "filler" broadly as any substance used for dermal or mucous membrane filling, regardless of its intended use. An injection is considered for cosmetic purposes if the filler is generally used for that, or if the likely effect is to alter the person's appearance.

Enforcement: Local weights and measures authorities will be responsible for enforcing the provisions concerning businesses.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending. The costs will likely involve enforcement by local authorities and potential legal proceedings related to violations. No specific figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Children (under 18): The bill directly protects children from undergoing cosmetic procedures with these substances.
• Businesses offering cosmetic treatments: Businesses offering these treatments will need to ensure they comply with the law, potentially requiring stricter age verification processes and training for staff.
• Medical practitioners and regulated health professionals: These professionals will need to ensure they comply with the legislation, particularly in relation to age verification.
• Local authorities: Local weights and measures authorities will have the responsibility of enforcing the law, leading to potential increased workload and costs.

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