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OFT takes over presidency of International Consumer Network

117/04    30 July 2004

Worldwide drive against scams

The UK is to take over the presidency of the International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network (ICPEN) from 1 August 2004. This will be led by Christine Wade, OFT Director for Consumer Regulation Enforcement.

ICPEN was set up in 1992 to help consumer law enforcers in different countries join forces in tackling cross border problems. This includes co-ordinating an annual worldwide internet sweep searching the web for sites that make false or deceptive promises.

The UK will host conferences in London on 7-8 October 2004 and in Edinburgh in March 2005 to which delegates from over 30 countries, the European Commission and the OECD have been invited to attend. The conferences will focus on the most common areas of consumer detriment The OFT will also be co-hosting a spam workshop on 11 October with the US Federal Trade Commission, which will look at how to achieve globally co-ordinated enforcement against unlawful and deceptive spam.

Christine Wade, said:

'The aim of the UK's presidency will be to deliver seamless global enforcement. Consumer detriment occurs across borders and we have to find a way to keep ahead of those who target consumers with unfair or illegal trading practices.'

'It is an opportune time for the UK to be taking on the role of presidency, as the world shopping market shrinks and rogue traders become more adept at hiding in overseas locations. Effective exchange of intelligence and a focused view on what can be achieved by drawing global enforcers together will both be key priorities for the year.'

Last year's president was Anja Peltonen, the Finnish Deputy Consumer Ombudsman.

NOTE

For more information visit the ICPEN website

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