The UK government has released the Product Safety and Metrology Bill, a landmark piece of legislation aimed at enhancing the country's regulatory framework with a specific focus on fire risks associated with modern technology. This initiative was highlighted in the briefing notes for The King’s Speech 2024.

Addressing fire risks in emerging technologies

One of the key aspects of the Bill is its focus on addressing fire risks linked to emerging technologies, such as e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries. The London Fire Brigade reported a 78% increase in e-bike fires in 2023 compared to the previous year, underscoring the urgency of these measures. The Bill outlines comprehensive steps to support growth and protect consumers by clarifying responsibilities within the supply chain, especially for online marketplaces. This is crucial for better consumer protection against fire risks.

Strengthening compliance and enforcement

To ensure effective regulation of high-risk products, the Bill proposes updates to compliance and enforcement measures. It aims to tackle non-compliance and enhance data sharing between regulators and market surveillance authorities. These updates are essential for managing the challenges posed by modern, digital borders.

Managing divergence from EU regulations

Most of the UK's current product safety legislation is derived from EU law. The new Bill empowers the UK government to manage divergence from EU regulations, allowing changes to UK legislation where beneficial. This move addresses the varying application of EU laws within the UK internal market, particularly due to the Windsor Framework affecting Northern Ireland.

Supporting technological progress in legal metrology

The Bill also updates the legal metrology framework, crucial for ensuring accuracy in weights and measures for purchased goods. This is vital for national infrastructure and consumer confidence. By supporting technological progress, the Bill ensures that innovations like energy meter readings remain accurate and reliable.

Future-proofing regulatory capacity

To future-proof the UK's regulatory capacity, the Bill includes provisions to improve compliance and enforcement. Enhanced data sharing between regulators and the strengthening of legal metrology frameworks will support innovation while maintaining accuracy, reinforcing the UK's commitment to high product safety standards and consumer protection.

The Product Safety and Metrology Bill represents a significant step forward in ensuring the safety and reliability of products in the UK market, addressing contemporary fire risks and fostering economic growth through rigorous regulation and technological advancement.

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