Government plans to license the aesthetics industry are one step closer today after The House of Lords Report Stage debate of the legislation last night.
No changes are expected to be made to the plan to bring in a nationwide scheme that will require all aesthetic practitioners to have a license for non-surgical cosmetic procedures such as Botox and fillers.
It’s all part of an amendment to the Health and Care Bill and last night those amendments were passed in the House of Lords to give the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care the power to introduce a licensing regime for Botox and fillers, the scope and details of which will be determined via extensive engagement including a public consultation – so it will still take a while to come into force.
Supporting this change, Lord Kamall said: “This will support the introduction of consistent standards that individuals carrying out such cosmetic procedures will have to meet, as well as hygiene and safety standards for premises.
“The subsequent regulations will set out in detail the treatments to be covered by the licensing system, and the detailed conditions and training requirements individuals would have to meet. The purpose of this amendment is not to ban procedures or stifle innovation, but rather to ensure that consumers who choose to undergo a cosmetic procedure can be confident that the treatment they receive is safe and of a high standard. The Government will work with stakeholders, including noble Lords, to put in place a licensing regime that works for both consumers and providers, protecting those who choose to receive cosmetic procedures without placing unnecessary restrictions on legitimate businesses.”