WW2 gas masks contain a filter which was manufactured using chrysotile and or crocidolite asbestos.

Asbestos is responsible for around 5,000 deaths per year and is extremely hazardous to human health.

Many museums and private collectors own WW2 memorabilia and may wear the masks totally unaware of the risks to health. Schools have been told not to allow children to wear masks but there is still a risk that the message has not filtered through. Breathing in any amount of asbestos can lead to incurable diseases such as mesothelioma.

Ebay currently allows the sale of WW2 gas masks regardless of condition. The sale of asbestos in the UK is illegal and we want eBay stop selling asbestos-containing masks to protect the public and future generations.