Press Release: Consumers: Update on recent toy recalls and actions to improve toy safety

Two large-scale, voluntary toy recall campaigns were announced in Europe by Mattel Inc. on 3 and 15 August 2007. Information on these was immediately distributed to the national enforcement authorities of all Member States via RAPEX (European rapid alert system for non-food dangerous consumer goods). The European Commission has explicitly requested national authorities to closely monitor these recalls and to provide information on the recall success rates in each country. The Commission also asked the market surveillance authorities to extend their investigations beyond the items identified by the manufacturers in the various recent recalls of toys with lead paint and magnets. The Commission awaits their reports, with a view to convening an ad hoc meeting in early autumn. This will guide the Commission in its future actions to enhance toy safety.