HC Deb 24 March 2004 vol 419 c865W
Mr. Stephen O'Brien

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations she has received on the conduct of e-auctions. [162866]

Mr. Sutcliffe

During the last 18 months I have received 12 representations on the conduct of e-auctions. Consumers have experienced problems with payment transmission services and in obtaining redress when goods for which they have paid have not been delivered.

The Department issued guidance on 29 December 2003 advising consumers how to guard against internet auction risks—such as lack of information about the seller—and about their rights when buying from private individuals. The guidance is available from the Consumer Gateway at http://www2.consumer.gov.uk/consumer_web/e-shopping.htm‣5.