Toxic chemicals banned by EU since Brexit still in use in UK

Exclusive: EU restricts use of eight chemicals, with 16 more in pipeline; UK has two under consideration

Several toxic chemicals that have been banned in the EU since Brexit are still allowed to be used in the UK, it can be revealed, as campaigners say the lower standards are putting public health at risk.

The UK has not been part of the EU's chemicals regulations scheme since 2021 and instead has its own, called Reach. Eight rules restricting the use of hazardous chemicals have been adopted by the EU since Brexit, and 16 more are in the pipeline. The UK has not banned any substances in that time and is considering just two restrictions, on lead ammunition and harmful substances in tattoo ink.