Euro MP welcomes expansion of e-shoppers rights

8.43.25pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 8th Oct 2008

Local Liberal Democrat Euro MP, Diana Wallis, has welcomed the European Commission's move today to empower European shoppers with a single, simple EU-wide set of consumer rights when shopping online. Consumers will be able to seek the best value for money anywhere across the EU without falling victim to differing complicated national rules.

The proposal guarantees a right to information before purchase, EU-wide protection against late delivery and non-delivery and a new 14-day cooling off period for distance and pressure sales.

Consumers could also rely on EU-wide rules for returns, repairs, refunds and guarantees.

The Liberal Democrat MEP for Yorkshire & the Humber commented;

"The internet means cheaper products are often only a few clicks away, but at the moment barriers exist in this virtual marketplace. It is time we gave consumers better protection when they shop online.

"I am delighted with these proposals therefore which will go a long way in giving consumers peace of mind when shopping for bargains abroad."

Note:-

Massive differences still exist across Europe with regard to prices of goods, for example, in the UK electronic goods are often 10.4% more expensive than in Ireland.

The Commission proposals mean a distance trader will be able to serve the entire EU market using the same set of contract terms reducing legal compliance costs.

Introduction of the plans mean UK consumers will benefit from an extension in a "cooling off period" to withdraw from distance and off premises contracts from 7 days to 14 days.

The right for consumers to change their mind will be simplified to a standard web based withdrawal form or via a durable medium. This makes it simple and easy for the consumer and provides them with legal certainty towards the trader.

The European Commission is hoping that the proposals will be approved by EU governments and the European Parliament next year.