1 April 2004 - Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restrictions of Chemicals (REACH) New System
The UK Government has now launched its consultation on the EU’s new chemicals strategy, known as the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restrictions of Chemicals (REACH) system.
The European Commission adopted proposals on 29 October 2003 to establish the new system to regulate the manufacture, import and use of substances. The new regime will also create a European Chemicals Agency, as well as amend current legislation in view of the proposed Regulation. This consultation paper seeks views on both the European Commission's Proposal and on an initial Government approach. This will in turn help inform the UK negotiating strategy.
The Government is encouraging industry, trade unions, environmental groups, health and safety professionals and others to comment.
The basis for the Government's negotiating position is threefold:
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ensuring a fast and efficient process
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maintaining industry's competitiveness
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keeping animal testing to a minimum.
With aims to streamline the system and make it more cost effective, the Government will be supporting the principle of one substance, one registration.
The closing date for responses is 25 June 2004 and the consultation documents can be found here.
