Press and Photo Gallery
ROGUE TRADERS AND RIP-OFF MERCHANTS TARGETED
Wednesday 21st April 2004
Rogue traders, rip-off merchants and scammers have been dealt a hefty blow by the European Parliament after MEPs voted in favour of a new regulation that will help protect consumers across Europe.
Voting on the Enforcement of Consumer Protection Legislation, which concentrates specifically on cross-border transactions, the text was adopted by a large majority and will now take effect this year.
The legislation will enable Member States to stop cross-border scammers from exploiting loop-holes and evading fair trading rules.
Timothy Kirkhope, MEP for Yorkshire and the Humber, said:
"This is a good day for consumers and for reputable business. The new rules make it possible to track down and stop rogue traders across the borders of Europe. Conservatives have worked hard in the face of serious opposition to ensure that consumers get the protection we all need in Europe."
"The biggest weakness in the EU Internal Market is the inconsistent enforcement of the rules. This proposal will push Member States into taking their responsibilities seriously and provide help for consumers to take advantage of the rights to buy goods and services anywhere in the EU."
