Member

Although the chemical supply framework inherited from the EU provided a high level of protection, it brought with it several structural and operational challenges when applied within a single-country system. Without these regulations, we would face a series of challenges. First, up to 173 active substances used in essential biocidal products would imminently lose approval, risking their removal from the GB market. This would have significant consequences, such as shortages of key disinfectants, rodenticides and other biocides that are vital for public health and the functioning of critical infrastructure. Secondly, businesses would continue to face unnecessary administrative burdens. Thirdly, the HSE’s ability to prioritise more quickly and flexibly those chemical hazard assessments relevant to the GB market would remain constrained, as it is currently obliged automatically to consider classification proposals from the EU risk assessment committee even when they are irrelevant to Great Britain. Finally, exporters of hazardous chemicals would continue to navigate redundant or inconsistent processes, such as needing to obtain a special reference identification number that even customs authorities do not use. Left unaddressed, these issues would risk market disruption, regulatory inefficiency and increased cost to business without any corresponding benefit to health or environmental protection.