§ Mr. HesfordTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps are being taken by his Department to increase consumer protection. [148887]
§ Dr. HowellsWe are taking a number of important steps to increase consumer protection. We have recently implemented Distance Selling regulations which give additional legal protection to consumers purchasing direct from home, including via the Internet. We are promoting e-commerce initiatives to enhance EU and wider international co-operation and enforcement, and to identify further issues which need developing. We will shortly be taking further steps to protect consumers, including introducing Stop Now Orders, which will give Trading Standards Officers new enforcement powers, and legislation for the full pint of beer.