Euro-MPs have approved a new landmark law on consumer rights that will, if EU governments agree, replace 4 existing laws and introduce stronger and clearer rights across the EU especially for online and telephone buying.

Originally the European Commission wanted to standardise consumer rights for all types of shopping, but the European Parliament decided that this was only necessary for online, tele-shopping and doorstep sales. EU governments however want an even narrower focus, on online shopping only, so further negotiations will be necessary.

Local Councillor Allan Siao Ming Witherick said

“On the County Council we regularly hear about the issues faced by Trading Standards and consumers so these extra provisions will really help consumers.”

• The current 7-day ‘cooling off’ period during which goods bought online can be returned ‘no questions asked’ will be extended to 14 days, giving you more time to decide whether you want it after all.

• If an order arrives late or not at all, you’ll have a new right to a refund no later than 7 days after the expected date of delivery.
  (If you ordered a dress for a party on Saturday, it’s no use if it arrives on the Monday after instead of the promised Friday before!)

• Companies will not be able to catch you out in the small print either. A new blacklist of unfair terms and conditions will be banned, along with a grey list of terms companies will have to justify if they want to use them.