European Commission calls on UK to change asbestos rules

The European Commission has asked the UK to change provisions in its legislation that exempt some maintenance and repair activities from the application of the European Union (EU) directive on protection of workers from asbestos. According to the commission, UK authorities do not comply with three clear obligations, undermining the protection foreseen by EU law for workers exposed to asbestos. The request takes the form of a reasoned opinion under EU infringement procedures.