HEALTH IMPACTS OF LOW ENERGY LIGHTING

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.