HL Deb 25 February 2002 vol 631 cc204-5WA
The Earl of Northesk

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is their revised timetable for the implementation of the European Union E-Commerce Directive, given that the January 2002 deadline was missed. [HL2742]

Lord Sainsbury of Turville

The Minister for E-Commerce announced by press notice dated 14 December 2001 that the Department of Trade and Industry would publish and consult on draft regulations early this year and that the Government expected to implement the directive during the summer. The need for further consultation was clearly identified as the best course for business and consumer confidence by those who responded to the initial consultation on implementation and reflects the Government's commitment to making theUK the best place in the world to do e-business. The UK is not alone in this approach; most other member states recognise the importance of putting in place the right legal framework for e-commerce and are therefore working to a similar timescale.