Consumers will be better protected under a consumer protection arrangement signed by Australia and the European Commission. The agreement covers issues such as e-commerce and product safety. The Minister for Foreign Affairs, The Hon. Alexander Downer MP and the Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer, The Hon. Senator Ian Campbell announced the agreement today.
"This marks an important achievement for Australia. Australia is the first foreign government to sign a consumer protection arrangement with the EC," said Minister Downer.
"Consumers from Australia and the EC will only benefit from this increased international cooperation," said Senator Campbell.
The Arrangement was first proposed in 1998 and has been negotiated in consultation with Commonwealth and State & Territory consumer protection agencies. It aims to improve information sharing on important cross-border issues such as e-commerce and product safety. It also allows for joint activities in areas of mutual interest.
"As consumer transactions increasingly move outside of national borders, it is important that consumer protection agencies work with their overseas counterparts to combat instances of consumer detriment," said Senator Campbell.
"Due to the global nature of modern consumer protection activities, Australia has a growing need to receive up-to-date information on consumer awareness and enforcement activities being undertaken by the European Commission. Under this Arrangement, both countries will be able to learn from each other on effective ways to address the important consumer issues facing both Australian and European citizens," said Senator Campbell.
The Arrangement was signed in Brussels on the 21 March with Australian Ambassador, Joanna Hewitt and EC Director General, Ronald Coleman acting as signatory agents.
CANBERRA
22 March 2002
http://parlsec.treasurer.gov.au
Contact:
Tammie Webb, Senator Campbell's office; 08 9325 4227 or 0417 400 227
Matt Francis, Minister Downer's office; 02 6277 7500 or 0419 206 890