Overview

This bill aims to improve the safety of goods sold online by requiring online marketplaces to take reasonable steps to ensure that products meet safety standards. The Secretary of State will create regulations to enforce this.

Description

The Online Sale of Goods (Safety) Bill mandates the Secretary of State to create regulations within one year of the bill's passage. These regulations will compel online marketplace operators to take reasonable steps to ensure that all goods offered for sale comply with:

• The General Product Safety Regulations 2005.
• Other safety requirements specified by the Secretary of State (e.g., voluntary national standards or international standards).
• A requirement to ensure no goods offered have been subject to safety notifications to enforcement authorities.

The regulations may differ based on product types and can establish criminal offences (with fines) and/or civil sanctions for non-compliance. The regulations are subject to parliamentary approval.

The bill defines "online marketplace" as a service (website, app, etc.) allowing consumers to buy from other traders or consumers via distance contracts and clarifies the meaning of "safety requirements".

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. However, costs may arise from the development and enforcement of the regulations, including staffing, inspections, and potential legal proceedings.

Groups Affected

• Online Marketplace Operators: They will face new responsibilities and potential penalties for non-compliance.
• Consumers: Should benefit from increased safety of goods purchased online.
• Enforcement Authorities: Increased workload in monitoring compliance and investigating violations.
• Businesses selling goods online: Increased responsibility for ensuring products comply with regulations.

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