'Rules on cosmetics needed'
Legislators yesterday urged the Government to provide a more comprehensive regulatory system to ensure the safety of cosmetics sold locally.
But Secretary for Economic Services Sandra Lee Suk-yee maintained that existing legislation and monitoring already provided enough protection for consumers.
'Consumers should also raise their own awareness of various products on the market,' Ms Lee said, adding that people could consult the Innovation and Technology Commission if they had any doubts about the products.
Under the Consumer Goods Safety Ordinance, it is an offence to supply, manufacture or import consumer goods that do not comply with general safety requirements or an approved standard applied to the goods. Offenders face up to two years' jail and a $500,000 fine.
Lo Wing-lok, who represents the medical sector, urged the administration to demand proof from suppliers or manufacturers that their products are safe before they are put on sale.
Democrat Sin Chung-kai said this system might be too harsh and suggested issuing certificates for those suppliers or manufacturers whose products have met safety standards as a reference for consumers.
Last month, tests on 14 bottles of Youdi Eliminating Freckle Cream seized by the Customs and Excise Department showed a mercury content ranging from 7,000 to 21,000 parts per million, considered dangerously high.
