Hello again all,
I was aware when I posted this up it would cause some consternation among you and I can see there are some things I need to clarify to prevent confusion.
Firstly, the list as you see it on the Home Office page is real and the ramifications of it are far reaching and quite difficult to take in.
I did notice a few comments which could lead to misunderstanding though so......
1. Sulphuric acid.
Sulphuric acid contained in batteries is legal to possess as long as you don't try to extract it from the battery.
There are some drain cleaners that are 96% sulphuric acid, if you are using it in your professional capacity and have it stored at your business address then you do not need to be licensed. If you have it as a non business member of the public then you do.
2. Elemental Mercury.
If you have a barometer, thermometer, mercury arc rectifier, mercury switch or other scientific instrument that contains Mercury, you do not need a license for that.
If you have a jar of mercury that is 'free' to use and not a part of the aforementioned then you do.
3. Oxalic Acid.
The concentration threshold for oxalic acid under UK law is 10% w/w. You will find that if you make up a solution of say 1kg of oxalic acid and 10 litres of water your oxalic acid powder suddenly becomes lawful. So just make up a solution and your problem is solved.
4. Trioxane.
I myself have a fair bit of trioxane and am not aware of it containing any hexamine at all so as far as I am concerned it is not covered under current law.
Having burned and left packets open I notice there is no sign of the presence of hexamine and the packs evaporate quite quickly leaving only a wax residue.
If someone has the results of lab analysis that proves the presence of hexamine then please let me know!
5. Phosphorus.
The description of phosphorus as yellow or white simply refers to that particular allotrope or form of phosphorus (P4). it's just two names for the same thing.
I notice that in other countries, regulated substances are for sale legally. Please don't attempt to purchase/import without a license as a member of the public. The UK gov. will take a very dim view of it.....
Finally,
I can see that one or two have contacted the Home Office looking for clarification citing other areas of or related segments of law.
All I can tell you is don't waste your time, they are not a law firm and simply cannot offer legal advice. They simply state the law which if you read it carefully is not perfect but pretty clear.
Also please do not post anywhere online if you do have chemicals that you may have concerns over. It's unwise at best and incorrect conclusions may be reached by any party reading it! Don't panic, just be careful.
If it is of any comfort to you it is usually the case that anyone who finds themselves getting prosecuted under any of the new conter-terrorism legislation does so in aggravated circumstances. I have not yet heard of anyone being prosecuted 'just because'. Never say never but currently this seems to be the case. The media love a sensational story but are usually far from the truth.
In my experience the Home Office have always been fair and reasonable but be warned: Don't try to 'cock a snook' at the authorities in these matters or try to set up a business to circumnavigate legislation as you could find yourself in way over your head.
Some of you on here will know me as having lifelong interest in 'all things scientific' and am reasonably well placed in these matters as an amateur with some past work background. I am also a third term license holder from the inception of the new legislation. I am not a legal expert either but do have confirmation of most of this from my communications with the HO.
If you have any genuinely serious concerns I may be able to help. Just ask.