PARLIAMENTARY EARLY DAY MOTION
HEALTH IMPACTS OF LOW ENERGY LIGHTING (6 June 2011)

That this House welcomes the positive contribution that low energy lighting bulbs such as compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are making to reduce energy consumption; acknowledges that ultra-violet radiation, electric fields and peaks in light wavelength from CFLs can aggravate conditions including lupus, migraines, autistic conditions, ME and xeroderma pigmentosum; notes the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Public Health's statement that between 30,000 and 40,000 people in the UK might be at risk of harm in this respect; also notes that the campaign group the Spectrum Alliance estimate this figure to be in excess of 250,000; acknowledges that this restricts both the range of work and day-to-day activities these people can undertake; is aware that incandescent light bulbs are the only light source not to have such effects; acknowledges that Commission Regulation (EC) No 244/2009 prohibits the sale of incandescent light bulbs; supports the Spectrum Alliance's campaign to have incandescent light bulbs made available to those affected; and urges the Department of Health to seek an exemption from the Commission Regulation in this respect.

Sponsored by:
Sheila Gilmore (Labour)