By Sarah Left, 23 July 1999 00:25
NEWS The UK government has outlined plans for an 'e-hallmark' to protect consumer interests online. The measure was introduced by Trade Secretary, Stephen Byers, at the launch of the government's Consumer White Paper on Thursday. Byers told the House of Commons: "It is vital that people feel they are secure when buying over the Internet. The e-hallmark will provide significant safeguards for consumers." The White Paper suggests the drafting of an ecommerce code of conduct, drawn up in conjunction with industry and consumer groups. The e-hallmark would be awarded to companies which agreed to meet that range of standards, from the quality of goods sold to delivery times. Companies which meet the criteria - no matter where they are based geographically - will be able to display the seal on their Web sites. Byers continued: "An independent body will be responsible for judging whether or not a business concerned deserves the hallmark." He said the mark will boost UK ecommerce buy giving consumers the confidence to shop online. The ecommerce initiatives are part of wider government plans to give consumers greater protection from rogue traders, whether online or not. The white paper is available at http://www.open.gov.uk
In order to post a comment you need to be registered and logged in.
Log in or create your silicon.com account below