The rural affairs ministers has admitted that he was "surprised" at the lack of information on the effect of manufactured chemicals.

Speaking on Tuesday, Alun Michael argued that a new EU chemicals directive would transform the situation with regard to human health and the environment.

"Coming to this area new and without technical knowledge, I was somewhat surprised at the extent to which there hasn't been an analysis of what chemicals are being used in a variety of different contexts, what the impact on the environment is and what their impact on health is," he told journalists.

New Registration, Evaluation and Authorisation of Chemicals (REACH) legislation comes into force on Wednesday, however, lobby groups have argued that industry leaders have watered down the legislation from the proposals launched for consultation earlier this year.

"The more you look at it, the more the REACH proposals are very far reaching and very significant," Michael added.

"But it also makes me realise there's no quick fix. You cannot just pull scientific information off the shelf."

A leaked text revealed a significant reduction in the safety information required for two thirds of chemicals, the granting of anonymity to any company that registers its chemicals, reduced protection for chemicals in products imported into the EU and continued for hazardous chemicals, even when a safer alternative is available.

"REACH could bring world wide benefits for human health and the environment," said Justin Woodford, leader of the chemicals and health campaign at the World Wildlife Fund.

"But it looks as if the European Commission has given too many concessions to industry.

"WWF will be looking to the European parliament and EU governments to redress the balance. It is time to put the health of future generations of people and animals at the heart of this debate."