It's a bit like the use of hydrogenated fats in junk food which leads to the creation of trans fats which are extremely harmful to health - so harmful that Denmark has virtually outlawed the use of hydrogenated/trans fats in foodstuffs, and other European countries will soon follow. Food manufacturers have plenty of altenative choices which taste the same without the harmful health side-effects, yet they continue to use hydrogenated fats because they're cheap and extend the shelf life of products, not because they care about the health of consumers.

Same goes for consumer electronics manufacturers - find and use alternatives to lead (and other harmful toxic substances) and stop harming the environment. Unfortunately it takes legislation in order to stop consumer electronics companies from taking the easy option.

RoHS is not just about lead, but a whole host of other nasty and toxic metals and chemicals. The manufacturers are belly aching - too bad, deal with it, find a solution.

The EU have, for once, got this right. Perhaps when the use of hydrogenated fats is outlawed across Europe which may impact the way American food is manufactured, Americans such as Mr Burke will thank Europe for saving them from a coronary instead of complaining about the inconvenience of premature death? Nah, doubt it!