VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Wearable Technology

Asked by Euan StainbankLabourDepartment for Science, Innovation and TechnologyTabled Answered 22 May 2026UIN 810

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what assessment she has made of the potential merits of further regulation of novel wearable technology.

Answered by Kanishka Narayan

Wearable technologies are not regulated as a broad category, as products may have a wide range of uses and functions. Existing frameworks apply where appropriate.

For example, under the Medical Device Regulations 2002, regulatory requirements apply to products, or software run on or with such products, that meet the definition of a medical device.

Relevant regulators, such as the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, continue to engage with Government, patients, clinicians and industry, to assess whether existing frameworks remain appropriate as technologies evolve, and to determine whether further regulatory measures or guidance may be needed to ensure safety while supporting innovation.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim