The government has launched a review of the UK’s toy safety rules to examine whether they remain fit for purpose as AI-enabled toys and new technologies become more common.
The Call for Evidence, which opened on Monday, is set to gather views on issues such as chemical safety, AI toys and whether current regulations keep pace with changes in how toys are designed, sold and used.
It is understood that the consultation will run until 6 October and is open to parents, consumer groups, businesses, enforcement authorities and members of the public.
The government said the review forms part of wider efforts to strengthen consumer protection, particularly as more products are bought through online marketplaces.
Consumer protection minister Kate Dearden said: “Every parent should be able to buy toys for their children with complete confidence that they are safe.
“But the way we shop, and the toys children play with, are changing rapidly as new technologies emerge and more purchases move online. It’s vital that our safety rules keep pace, and this Call for Evidence will ensure we can do that.”
The review follows the government’s wider programme to reform the UK’s product safety framework, alongside measures targeting unsafe products sold online, fake reviews, drip pricing and subscription traps. It said a broader consumer action plan will be published later this year.
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