§ Linda PerhamTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps she has taken to protect consumers from unscrupulous traders on the internet. [22297]
§ Miss Melanie JohnsonWe are providing protection through codes of practice, dispute resolution and clear information for on-line shoppers.
In November I launched a Safe Internet Shopping Campaign together with the Minister for E-Commerce and Competitiveness. The campaign aimed to raise awareness about e-shopping and demonstrate that it is safe as long as shoppers follow basic, common-sense guidelines.
Existing consumer protection legislation (the Consumer Credit Act 1974 and distance selling regulations) do protect consumers from credit card fraud and give them a cooling-off period in respect of most contracts.
DTI is working with business and consumer organisations to deliver straightforward guidance, and to provide access to more comprehensive information about the full range of concerns through DTI's Consumer Gateway website.