The current system relies on manufacturers conducting their own safety tests, but MEPs say this "poacher turned gamekeeper approach" to toy safety is overly dependent on producers with "a vested interest". They want toys to be checked and certified by independent inspectors.
The European Consumer Organisation BEUC explained that, while most believe the CE logo assures products have been rigorously tested by European authorities, in fact it is "just a self-declaration of market worthiness by the manufacturer or a type of publicity".
MEPs are also calling for the place of production to be clearly featured on all toys. The finger is clearly pointing towards China, from which originate more than half of all the dangerous products that enter the EU. However, Mattel, which had originally blamed China for its faulty toys, made a public apology to the country on 21 September after it emerged that the fault lay with the design, not Chinese production methods.
The Commission, which is currently reviewing existing control systems, told MEPs it would present a Directive on improving the marking system for toys in December.
"I would like to see the mandatory certification of certain types of toys," Industry Commissioner Günter Verheugen told Parliament.
Consumer Commissioner Meglena Kuneva added: "This is really the moment to step up our actions about the safety of toys. Christmas is coming and we need a Christmas pact."
But any Directive would have to gather approval from all 27 member states before entering into force and is thus unlikely to be ready in time for end-of-year celebrations.
