SHADES FOR A DAY, 13TH JULY 2004

Early day motion 1227, tabled 19 May 2004 by Tim Yeo (Conservative). Signed by 72 members.

That this House congratulates Guide Dogs for the Blind for organising Shades for a Day, which is taking place on 13th July in England and Wales, and on days throughout the summer months in Scotland and Northern Ireland; recognises the aims of this event is to promote awareness, especially among young people, of the need to protect our eyes from ultra-violet light by wearing sunglasses; notes that most of the damage done to our eyes by the sun's ultra-violet radiation is done before we reach the age of 18, which means that making children aware of the potential risks is especially important; further notes that whilst 86 per cent. of parents questioned in a recent survey recognised the danger of the sun and the necessity of protecting their children's eyes, only 20 per cent. ensured their children wore sunglasses in reality; is pleased to see this event is part of the wider 'Healthy Eyes' campaign, also organised by Guide Dogs for the Blind, held in June this year; and congratulates all of those taking part in the event, expected to number over 1200, who are raising money and generating awareness for this very important cause.

Signatures by party: Conservative 39, Labour 16, Liberal Democrat 7, UUP 3, DUP 2, Scottish National Party 2, Independent Conservative 1, Labour/Co-operative 1, Plaid Cymru 1.