Solicitors Paisner & Co warn that UK on-line retailers and others selling goods "at a distance" should ensure compliance with new EU rules to be implemented shortly.

Solicitors Paisner & Co warn that UK on-line retailers and others selling goods "at a distance" should ensure compliance with new EU rules to be implemented shortly. The new laws will allow consumers at least seven working days to cancel most orders not made face-to-face, and to claim refunds of any money paid.

The consumer's only obligation will be to pay thet cost of returning the goods. Customers must be told in advance that they have this right of withdrawal. The new laws also require sellers to provide certain other information to consumers before they make a distance purchase. This includes the name of the retailer, the price (including all taxes and delivery costs) and details of delivery arrangements.