Summer 2008

A standardised system of rules for online selling is planned by European Union Consumer Commissioner Meglena Kuneva. By autumn this year she plans to propose new legislation containing a simplified common set of rules for business-to-consumer contracts.

Some commentators have interpreted this as meaning it will become easier for consumers to buy online across borders – an impression perhaps encouraged by her own statement that 'a single, simple set of core rights and obligations will make it easier for consumers and business to buy and sell across Europe.'

However, it appears that the rules will in reality be mainly concerned with ensuring that consistent provisions apply in all countries on issues such as rights and practices, cooling-off periods and product guarantees. Other commentators have pointed out that retailers cannot be compelled to supply goods across borders, or to any given purchaser.