A LEIGH MEP has helped to secure the introduction of strict controls on some of the world's most dangerous chemicals.

Chris Davies, who serves on the environment committee in the European Parliament, acted as a bridge between MEPs and environment ministers to help push through a new European law for tighter restrictions on chemicals in household goods such as cadmium, mercury and flame retardants.

The chemicals, which can be found in goods such as TVs, computers and furniture, can accumulate in the body. They have been traced in breast milk and blood, and can lead to health problems including kidney damage, malformation of the genitals and cancer.