§ David DavisTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what measures she is taking to inform consumers about their rights concerning distance selling. [151258]
§ Mr. SutcliffeOnline in formation is available from my Department's website and from the Consumer Gateway (www2.consumer.gov.uk/consumer_web/e-shopping.htm), which provides links to a variety of websites that will help consumers make informed decisions about buying goods and services.
On 29 December DTI published guidance about buying from internet auction sites, and on 22 January the Department began a consultation on changes to the Distance Selling Regulations, including a proposal to clarify what suppliers must tell consumers about their cancellation rights.
DTFs Safe Internet Shopping campaign, launched in 2001, promotes wider access to information on e-commerce. Guidance has been delivered through TV and radio, and over the Internet in partnership with private sector organisations such as Microsoft, Sainsbury's, Freeserve and Expedia. Hard copy information has been distributed through Citizens Advice Bureaux and libraries. The Office of Fair Trading also provides information on internet shopping and distance contracts more generally, on its website and through consumer roadshows.
588WIn addition, Consumer Direct will offer advice to consumers by telephone, by e-mail or on the web. The service is likely to begin in three pathfinder areas this Summer and is expected to be operating nationally by 2007.