Asbestos found in crayons from China

Small quantities of asbestos have been found in some crayons imported from China.

Employment Minister Eric Abetz says the Australian Border Force has decided to halt imports of crayons from China until there are assurances they are free of asbestos.

Senator Abetz says there is low risk to children as the trace amounts of asbestos detected are bound in the crayon wax and would not be released if eaten as the melting point of wax is well above body temperature.