Overview

This bill aims to restrict the use of biocides (substances with antimicrobial properties) in consumer products like cosmetics and personal care items to combat the rise of antibiotic resistance. It establishes a new advisory board, grants the Secretary of State powers to ban certain products, and prohibits misleading marketing claims.

Description

The bill introduces a five-year ban on the sale of cosmetic, personal care, and treated articles containing biocides, unless exempted. Exemptions include medically necessary products, those proven environmentally safe, or products where the biocide significantly enhances efficacy without undue environmental impact.

Key Provisions:

• Establishes a Biocidal Consumer Products Advisory Board to review scientific evidence and advise the government.
• Empowers the Secretary of State to ban biocidal products posing a danger due to microbiotoxicity or antibiotic resistance generation.
• Requires a bi-annual report to Parliament on the impact of biocides on the environment and human health, particularly antibiotic resistance.
• Prohibits misleading marketing claims comparing biocidal products to soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizers unless proven to the advisory board.
• Defines "biocide," "cosmetic product," "personal care product," and "treated article."

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify direct government spending figures. However, costs will be incurred in establishing and running the Biocidal Consumer Products Advisory Board, producing the bi-annual reports, and enforcing the new regulations. Potential savings might arise from reduced healthcare costs related to antibiotic resistance in the long term.

Groups Affected

• Consumers: May see a reduction in the availability of certain consumer products containing biocides.
• Manufacturers: Will need to reformulate products to comply with the new regulations, potentially incurring costs.
• Retailers: Will need to ensure compliance with the new regulations and remove non-compliant products from shelves.
• Healthcare professionals: May benefit indirectly from reduced antibiotic resistance.
• Environmental groups: May benefit from reduced environmental impact of biocides.

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