Overview

This bill mandates that all online subscription services must offer online cancellation options. It aims to simplify the process of cancelling subscriptions, ensuring consumers can easily end contracts without unnecessary hurdles or charges.

Description

The Online Services (Cancellation) Bill requires the Secretary of State to create regulations governing online subscription cancellations. These regulations will mandate that businesses:

• Provide a clear and easily accessible online cancellation method available at any time.
• Display prominent instructions on how to cancel online.

Upon cancellation:

• Both parties' future obligations under the contract cease.
• The consumer's financial liability ends within either the contract's notice period or 28 days, whichever is sooner.
• Consumers are entitled to a refund for any overpayments, payable within 14 days.
• No cancellation penalties or charges are permitted.

The regulations will be made through a statutory instrument, requiring approval from both Houses of Parliament.

Government Spending

The bill itself doesn't directly specify government spending figures. The cost will likely be related to the implementation and enforcement of the regulations by relevant government bodies. No specific figures are available in this bill text.

Groups Affected

• Consumers: Will benefit from simpler and more straightforward online cancellation processes, protecting them from unfair practices and hidden charges.
• Businesses (Traders): Will need to adapt their systems to comply with the new regulations, potentially incurring costs for updating their online platforms and customer service processes.
• Government Agencies: Will be responsible for creating and enforcing the regulations, potentially requiring additional resources.

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