By Sally Watson, 1 December 1998 14:43
NEWS KPMG Consulting has sounded a note of caution about the UK government's ambitious ecommerce plans. Although the consultancy is broadly welcoming the government's plans to promote electronic commerce, Paul Baker, partner at KPMG, is warning that over-legislation could actually harm development. Speaking at a London seminar Baker said UK companies are clearly looking for guidance on subjects such as legality, security and taxation - especially complex issues such as the harmonisation of VAT across national borders. But he added that legislation could actually inhibit development as too much red tape would discourage businesses. He suggested ideas such as the issuing of electronic trading licenses would add an unwanted layer of bureaucracy. KPMG believes the government should take advantage of the research already done by the private sector to help it develop guidelines and rules. It is also recommending collaboration with global bodies such as the OECD and UN Committee on International Trade Law to ensure the UK is integrated on a global scale.
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