'Right to reject' goods at risk

Plans for a new European directive on consumer rights would place UK consumers in a weaker position, the Law Commission has warned.

Commissioners said the Consumer Rights Directive could lead to the abolition of the ‘right to reject’ faulty goods for a refund within a reasonable time.

The new directive aims to harmonise the 1999 European Consumer Sales Directive with member states’ legislation.

David Hertzell, commissioner for England and Wales, said that, while ‘confusion’ needs clearing up, ‘we believe retaining the right to reject is crucial’.