A cross-party group of MPs launches inquiry into UV safety and protection as incidence of melanoma skin cancers continues to rise
This morning, the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Beauty and Wellbeing has launched its inaugural inquiry into UV safety. At an event attended by MPs and beauty industry professionals and business leaders, the group set out its intention to push for increased protection for the public from UV damage.
As part of this inquiry the APPG, chaired by Carolyn Harris MP, is today issuing a call for written evidence from key stakeholders across the beauty and healthcare sectors.
This announcement comes as there are 16,000 new cases of melanoma skin cancer each year in the UK, with 2,300 people dying from the disease. And, 57% of UK consumers say that sunscreen is too expensive, with 29% saying that they would wear sunscreen daily if it were cheaper.
Left to Right: Laura Trott MP, Victoria Brownlie MBE, Baroness Luciana Berger, Millie Kendall OBE
The inquiry will provide recommendations to the Government following the launch of findings in Spring 2026.
Key areas of focus that the inquiry will seek evidence on include:
- The principle of UV safety is a basic need
- The principle of UV safety is a year-round issue
- The affordability and accessibility of UV safety
- If a change in approach can help to relieve the burden on the NHS
- The effectiveness of education on UV safety
On the launch of the inquiry, Carolyn Harris MP said: “For years, the beauty industry and healthcare professionals have been working to increase awareness of the damaging effects of exposure to UV without adequate protections. Now, the APPG on Beauty and Wellbeing will push this forward in a collaborative effort and provide recommendations to the Government via its new inquiry.
“According to a recent consumer survey, only 35% of people actually know what the term ‘SPF’ means, and cases of melanoma are expected to rise to 26,500 by 2038. What’s more, 65% of people said they stay in the sun for prolonged periods of time for a tan and 11% of people use sun beds. That’s why, this inquiry into UV Safety is increasingly vital and will push for much needed government and industry action to protect the general public.”
The written call for evidence is open to any individuals or groups with expertise and experience relating to UV safety, including those impacted by the effects of UV damage, those working to promote increased sun safety and working within the beauty and healthcare sectors who engage with UV and suncare.
Left to right: Caroline Hirons, Jessica Diner
Submissions will form a crucial part of the APPG’s wider inquiry, which will also include oral evidence sessions scheduled for later this year.
The APPG invites written evidence from the public, organisations, industry bodies and academics, by 31st October 2025. If you are interested in submitting to the call for evidence, please email beautyappg@britishbeautycouncil.com for full terms of reference.
The British Beauty Council is the secretariat for the APPG for Beauty and Wellbeing. For more information on the APPG, visit https://www.baw-appg.co.uk/.
Header Image: Carolyn Harris MP, Hair of APPG for Beauty and Wellbeing.
