Imports of dangerous novelty lighters are to be banned under new legislation.
The import ban will take place from March next year followed by a full ban on sales in March 2008.
Fire experts have warned that most disposable lighters are not child resistant and that novelty lighters such as those in the shape of cartoon characters are especially dangerous to young children.
Consumer minister Ian McCartney said: "With a fifth of house fires being started by children playing with lighters, these measures will make a real difference to the safety of young children."
The import ban will take place from March next year followed by a full ban on sales in March 2008.
Fire experts have warned that most disposable lighters are not child resistant and that novelty lighters such as those in the shape of cartoon characters are especially dangerous to young children.
Consumer minister Ian McCartney said: "With a fifth of house fires being started by children playing with lighters, these measures will make a real difference to the safety of young children."
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