BROMSGROVE MP Sajid Javid has announced a government crackdown into the safety of children's fancy dress costumes.

The issue first hit the headlines in 2014 when Strictly Come Dancing presenter Claudia Winkleman raised concerns about the safety of the costumes after her daughter, Matilda, suffered serious burns when her Halloween costume caught fire.

She described the incident as life changing on BBC's Watchdog - which investigated the issue and highlighted a legal flaw that classes fancy dress costumes as toys, rather than clothes.

She added at the time that she hoped speaking about the experience could prevent similar accidents.

The MP, who is the Business Secretary, has today announced a nationwide investigation into the safety of children's fancy dress costumes.

Ahead of Halloween fancy dress season, Mr Javid has requested Trading Standards test outfits from hundreds of retailers for flammability to see if they meet safety standards.

These findings will then be reported back to him later in the autumn.

European safety standards are also being examined and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills is currently working with the British Standards Institute to determine whether their safety standards are tough enough.

The MP said: "My immediate concern as a father and a minister is that children wearing these fancy dress costumes are safe.

"It is unacceptable for any costumes to be sold that do not comply with safety standards.

"That’s why I’ve granted funding to Trading Standards to carry out spot checks as part of a nationwide investigation. Parents should feel confident that any fancy dress they buy meets required standards.”

The Chief Fire Officers Association (CFOA) took part in the Watchdog programme, and is calling for children’s fancy dress costumes to meet the same safety standards as children’s nightclothes.

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service Chief Fire Officer, Mark Yates, said: "As a fire officer and father of a four-year-old daughter, I agree with CFOA’s position.

"Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service fully support this nationwide review which we hope will lead to tougher standards, which will ultimately protect our children.”