# CE2012247EN.01005501.xml

| 17.8.2012 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | CE 247/55 |
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17.8.2012

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

CE 247/55

---

Thursday 24 March 2011Consumer rights ***I

P7_TA(2011)0116

European Parliament amendments adopted on 24 March 2011 to the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on consumer rights (COM(2008)0614 – C6-0349/2008 – 2008/0196(COD))

2012/C 247 E/16

(Ordinary legislative procedure: first reading)

The proposal was amended as follows (1):

1

| TEXT PROPOSED BY THE COMMISSION | AMENDMENT |
| --- | --- |
| Amendment 1 |
| Proposal for a directive


  Recital 2 |
| (2) | Those Directives have been reviewed in the light of experience with a view to simplifying and updating the applicable rules, removing inconsistencies and closing unwanted gaps in the rules. That review has shown that it is appropriate to replace those four Directives by this single Directive. This Directive should accordingly lay down standard rules for the common aspects
  and move away from the minimum harmonisation approach in the former Directives under which
  Member States
  could
  maintain or adopt
  stricter
  national rules. |

TEXT PROPOSED BY THE COMMISSION

AMENDMENT

Amendment 1

Amendment 1

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 2

Recital 2

(2)

Those Directives have been reviewed in the light of experience with a view to simplifying and updating the applicable rules, removing inconsistencies and closing unwanted gaps in the rules. That review has shown that it is appropriate to replace those four Directives by this single Directive. This Directive should accordingly lay down standard rules for the common aspects
  and move away from the minimum harmonisation approach in the former Directives under which
  Member States
  could
  maintain or adopt
  stricter
  national rules.

and move away from the minimum harmonisation approach in the former Directives under which

could

stricter

| (2) | Those Directives have been reviewed in the light of experience with a view to simplifying and updating the applicable rules, removing inconsistencies and closing unwanted gaps in the rules. That review has shown that it is appropriate to replace those four Directives by this single Directive. This Directive should accordingly lay down standard rules for the common aspects
  whilst allowing
  Member States
  to
  maintain or adopt national rules
  , in relation to certain other aspects, providing for a higher level of consumer protection
  . |
| --- | --- |

(2)

Those Directives have been reviewed in the light of experience with a view to simplifying and updating the applicable rules, removing inconsistencies and closing unwanted gaps in the rules. That review has shown that it is appropriate to replace those four Directives by this single Directive. This Directive should accordingly lay down standard rules for the common aspects
  whilst allowing
  Member States
  to
  maintain or adopt national rules
  , in relation to certain other aspects, providing for a higher level of consumer protection
  .

whilst allowing

to

, in relation to certain other aspects, providing for a higher level of consumer protection

Amendment 2

Amendment 2

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 5

Recital 5

| (5) | The cross-border potential of distance selling which should be one of the main tangible results of the internal market is not fully exploited
  by consumers
  . Compared with the significant growth of domestic distance sales over the last few years, the growth in cross-border distance sales has been limited. This discrepancy is particularly significant for Internet sales for which the potential of further growth is high. The cross-border potential of contracts negotiated away from business premises (direct selling) is constrained by a number of factors including the different national consumer protection rules imposed upon the industry. Compared with the growth of domestic direct selling over the last few years, in particular in the services sector (e.g. utilities), the number of consumers using this channel for cross-border purchases has remained flat. Responding to increased business opportunities in many Member States, small and medium size enterprises (including individual
  entrepreneurs
  ) or agents of direct selling companies should be more inclined to seek business opportunities in other Member States, in particular in border regions. Therefore the full harmonisation of consumer information and the right of withdrawal in distance and off-premises contracts will contribute to
  the
  better functioning of the business to consumer internal market. |
| --- | --- |

(5)

The cross-border potential of distance selling which should be one of the main tangible results of the internal market is not fully exploited
  by consumers
  . Compared with the significant growth of domestic distance sales over the last few years, the growth in cross-border distance sales has been limited. This discrepancy is particularly significant for Internet sales for which the potential of further growth is high. The cross-border potential of contracts negotiated away from business premises (direct selling) is constrained by a number of factors including the different national consumer protection rules imposed upon the industry. Compared with the growth of domestic direct selling over the last few years, in particular in the services sector (e.g. utilities), the number of consumers using this channel for cross-border purchases has remained flat. Responding to increased business opportunities in many Member States, small and medium size enterprises (including individual
  entrepreneurs
  ) or agents of direct selling companies should be more inclined to seek business opportunities in other Member States, in particular in border regions. Therefore the full harmonisation of consumer information and the right of withdrawal in distance and off-premises contracts will contribute to
  the
  better functioning of the business to consumer internal market.

by consumers

entrepreneurs

the

| (5) | The cross-border potential of distance selling which should be one of the main tangible results of the internal market is not fully exploited. Compared with the significant growth of domestic distance sales over the last few years, the growth in cross-border distance sales has been limited. This discrepancy is particularly significant for Internet sales for which the potential of further growth is high. The cross-border potential of contracts negotiated away from business premises (direct selling) is constrained by a number of factors including the different national consumer protection rules imposed upon the industry. Compared with the growth of domestic direct selling over the last few years, in particular in the services sector (e.g. utilities), the number of consumers using this channel for cross-border purchases has remained flat. Responding to increased business opportunities in many Member States, small and medium size enterprises (including individual
  traders
  ) or agents of direct selling companies should be more inclined to seek business opportunities in other Member States, in particular in border regions. Therefore the full harmonisation of
  certain aspects of
  consumer information and
  of
  the right of withdrawal in distance and off-premises contracts will contribute to
  a high level of consumer protection and
  better functioning of the business-to-consumer internal market. |
| --- | --- |

(5)

The cross-border potential of distance selling which should be one of the main tangible results of the internal market is not fully exploited. Compared with the significant growth of domestic distance sales over the last few years, the growth in cross-border distance sales has been limited. This discrepancy is particularly significant for Internet sales for which the potential of further growth is high. The cross-border potential of contracts negotiated away from business premises (direct selling) is constrained by a number of factors including the different national consumer protection rules imposed upon the industry. Compared with the growth of domestic direct selling over the last few years, in particular in the services sector (e.g. utilities), the number of consumers using this channel for cross-border purchases has remained flat. Responding to increased business opportunities in many Member States, small and medium size enterprises (including individual
  traders
  ) or agents of direct selling companies should be more inclined to seek business opportunities in other Member States, in particular in border regions. Therefore the full harmonisation of
  certain aspects of
  consumer information and
  of
  the right of withdrawal in distance and off-premises contracts will contribute to
  a high level of consumer protection and
  better functioning of the business-to-consumer internal market.

traders

certain aspects of

of

a high level of consumer protection and

Amendment 3

Amendment 3

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 6

Recital 6

| (6) | The laws of the Member States on consumer contracts show marked differences which can generate appreciable distortions of competition and obstacles to the smooth functioning of the internal market. The existing Community legislation in the field of consumer contracts concluded at a distance or away from business premises consumer goods and guarantees as well as unfair contract terms establishes minimum standards for harmonising legislation allowing the Member States the possibility to maintain or introduce more stringent measures which ensure a higher level of consumer protection in their territories. Furthermore, many issues are regulated inconsistently between directives or have been left open. These issues have been addressed differently by the Member States. As a result, the national provisions implementing directives on consumer contract law diverge significantly. |
| --- | --- |

(6)

(6)

The laws of the Member States on consumer contracts show marked differences which can generate appreciable distortions of competition and obstacles to the smooth functioning of the internal market. The existing Community legislation in the field of consumer contracts concluded at a distance or away from business premises consumer goods and guarantees as well as unfair contract terms establishes minimum standards for harmonising legislation allowing the Member States the possibility to maintain or introduce more stringent measures which ensure a higher level of consumer protection in their territories. Furthermore, many issues are regulated inconsistently between directives or have been left open. These issues have been addressed differently by the Member States. As a result, the national provisions implementing directives on consumer contract law diverge significantly.

The laws of the Member States on consumer contracts show marked differences which can generate appreciable distortions of competition and obstacles to the smooth functioning of the internal market. The existing Community legislation in the field of consumer contracts concluded at a distance or away from business premises consumer goods and guarantees as well as unfair contract terms establishes minimum standards for harmonising legislation allowing the Member States the possibility to maintain or introduce more stringent measures which ensure a higher level of consumer protection in their territories. Furthermore, many issues are regulated inconsistently between directives or have been left open. These issues have been addressed differently by the Member States. As a result, the national provisions implementing directives on consumer contract law diverge significantly.

deleted

deleted

Amendment 4

Amendment 4

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 7

Recital 7

| (7) | These
  disparities create significant internal market barriers affecting
  business
  and consumers. They increase compliance costs to
  business
  wishing to engage in cross border sale of goods or provision of services. Fragmentation also undermines consumer confidence in the internal market.
  The negative effect on consumer confidence is strengthened by an uneven level of consumer protection across the Community. This problem is particularly acute in the light of new market developments. |
| --- | --- |

(7)

These
  disparities create significant internal market barriers affecting
  business
  and consumers. They increase compliance costs to
  business
  wishing to engage in cross border sale of goods or provision of services. Fragmentation also undermines consumer confidence in the internal market.
  The negative effect on consumer confidence is strengthened by an uneven level of consumer protection across the Community. This problem is particularly acute in the light of new market developments.

These

business

business

The negative effect on consumer confidence is strengthened by an uneven level of consumer protection across the Community. This problem is particularly acute in the light of new market developments.

| (7) | Certain
  disparities
  in the Member States’ legislation in the field of consumer contracts, particularly distance contracts or off-premises contracts,
  create significant internal market barriers affecting
  traders
  and consumers. They increase compliance costs to
  traders
  wishing to engage in cross border sale of goods or provision of services.
  Disproportionate
  fragmentation also undermines consumer confidence in the internal market. |
| --- | --- |

(7)

Certain
  disparities
  in the Member States’ legislation in the field of consumer contracts, particularly distance contracts or off-premises contracts,
  create significant internal market barriers affecting
  traders
  and consumers. They increase compliance costs to
  traders
  wishing to engage in cross border sale of goods or provision of services.
  Disproportionate
  fragmentation also undermines consumer confidence in the internal market.

Certain

in the Member States’ legislation in the field of consumer contracts, particularly distance contracts or off-premises contracts,

traders

traders

Disproportionate

Amendment 5

Amendment 5

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 8

Recital 8

| (8) | Full harmonisation of some key regulatory aspects
  will
  considerably increase legal certainty for both consumers and
  business
  . Both consumers and
  business
  will be able to rely on a single regulatory framework based on clearly defined legal concepts regulating certain aspects of business-to-consumer contracts across the Community.
  The effect
  will
  be to
  eliminate the barriers stemming from the fragmentation of the rules and
  to
  complete the internal market in this area.
  These barriers can only be eliminated by establishing uniform rules at Community level. Furthermore consumers will enjoy a high common level of protection across the Community
  . |
| --- | --- |

(8)

Full harmonisation of some key regulatory aspects
  will
  considerably increase legal certainty for both consumers and
  business
  . Both consumers and
  business
  will be able to rely on a single regulatory framework based on clearly defined legal concepts regulating certain aspects of business-to-consumer contracts across the Community.
  The effect
  will
  be to
  eliminate the barriers stemming from the fragmentation of the rules and
  to
  complete the internal market in this area.
  These barriers can only be eliminated by establishing uniform rules at Community level. Furthermore consumers will enjoy a high common level of protection across the Community
  .

will

business

business

Community

The effect

be to

to

These barriers can only be eliminated by establishing uniform rules at Community level. Furthermore consumers will enjoy a high common level of protection across the Community

| (8) | Unless otherwise specified and in accordance with Article 169 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the provisions of this Directive should not hinder the Member States from adopting or maintaining more stringent measures of national law, which improve consumer protection. However, the
  full harmonisation of some key regulatory aspects
  is justified in order to secure a single regulatory framework for consumer protection and in order to
  considerably increase legal certainty for both consumers and
  traders in cross-border business
  .
  In this case, both
  consumers and
  traders
  will be able to rely on a single regulatory framework based on clearly defined legal concepts regulating certain aspects of business-to-consumer contracts across the Union.
  Thus, the consumer
  will
  enjoy a high common level of protection across the Union. Furthermore, by establishing uniform rules at Union level, this should
  eliminate the barriers stemming from the
  disproportionate
  fragmentation of the rules and complete the internal market in this area. |
| --- | --- |

(8)

Unless otherwise specified and in accordance with Article 169 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the provisions of this Directive should not hinder the Member States from adopting or maintaining more stringent measures of national law, which improve consumer protection. However, the
  full harmonisation of some key regulatory aspects
  is justified in order to secure a single regulatory framework for consumer protection and in order to
  considerably increase legal certainty for both consumers and
  traders in cross-border business
  .
  In this case, both
  consumers and
  traders
  will be able to rely on a single regulatory framework based on clearly defined legal concepts regulating certain aspects of business-to-consumer contracts across the Union.
  Thus, the consumer
  will
  enjoy a high common level of protection across the Union. Furthermore, by establishing uniform rules at Union level, this should
  eliminate the barriers stemming from the
  disproportionate
  fragmentation of the rules and complete the internal market in this area.

Unless otherwise specified and in accordance with Article 169 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the provisions of this Directive should not hinder the Member States from adopting or maintaining more stringent measures of national law, which improve consumer protection. However, the

is justified in order to secure a single regulatory framework for consumer protection and in order to

traders in cross-border business

In this case, both

traders

Union

Thus, the consumer

enjoy a high common level of protection across the Union. Furthermore, by establishing uniform rules at Union level, this should

disproportionate

Amendment 6

Amendment 6

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 10 a (new)

Recital 10 a (new)

| (10a) | This Directive should not apply to healthcare, that is to say health services provided by health professionals to patients to assess, maintain or restore their health. |
| --- | --- |

(10a)

(10a)

This Directive should not apply to healthcare, that is to say health services provided by health professionals to patients to assess, maintain or restore their health.

This Directive should not apply to healthcare, that is to say health services provided by health professionals to patients to assess, maintain or restore their health.

Amendment 7

Amendment 7

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 10 b (new)

Recital 10 b (new)

| (10b) | Gambling activities, including lottery and betting transactions, should be excluded from the scope of this Directive in view of the very specific nature of those activities, in the light of which Member States should be able to adopt other, including more stringent, consumer protection measures in relation to such activities. |
| --- | --- |

(10b)

(10b)

Gambling activities, including lottery and betting transactions, should be excluded from the scope of this Directive in view of the very specific nature of those activities, in the light of which Member States should be able to adopt other, including more stringent, consumer protection measures in relation to such activities.

Gambling activities, including lottery and betting transactions, should be excluded from the scope of this Directive in view of the very specific nature of those activities, in the light of which Member States should be able to adopt other, including more stringent, consumer protection measures in relation to such activities.

Amendment 8

Amendment 8

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 11

Recital 11

| (11) | The existing
  Community
  legislation
  on
  consumer financial services contains numerous rules on consumer protection. For this reason
  the provisions of this Directive cover contracts relating to financial services only insofar as this is necessary to fill the regulatory gaps
  . |
| --- | --- |

(11)

The existing
  Community
  legislation
  on
  consumer financial services contains numerous rules on consumer protection. For this reason
  the provisions of this Directive cover contracts relating to financial services only insofar as this is necessary to fill the regulatory gaps
  .

Community

on

the provisions of this Directive cover contracts relating to financial services only insofar as this is necessary to fill the regulatory gaps

| (11) | The existing
  Union
  legislation
  inter alia relating to
  consumer financial services
  or package travel
  contains numerous rules on consumer protection. For this reason
  , Articles 5 to 19 and Article 23a of this Directive should not apply to contracts relating to financial services and Articles 9 to 19 should not apply to distance and off-premises contracts relating to package travel, without prejudice to other provisions of existing Union legislation. With regard to financial services, Member States should be encouraged to draw inspiration from existing Union legislation in that area when legislating in areas not regulated at Union level, in such a way that a level playing field for all consumers and all contracts relating to financial services is ensured. The Commission should aim at complementing Union legislation in the field of financial services in order to close existing gaps and protect consumers in all types of contracts. |
| --- | --- |

(11)

The existing
  Union
  legislation
  inter alia relating to
  consumer financial services
  or package travel
  contains numerous rules on consumer protection. For this reason
  , Articles 5 to 19 and Article 23a of this Directive should not apply to contracts relating to financial services and Articles 9 to 19 should not apply to distance and off-premises contracts relating to package travel, without prejudice to other provisions of existing Union legislation. With regard to financial services, Member States should be encouraged to draw inspiration from existing Union legislation in that area when legislating in areas not regulated at Union level, in such a way that a level playing field for all consumers and all contracts relating to financial services is ensured. The Commission should aim at complementing Union legislation in the field of financial services in order to close existing gaps and protect consumers in all types of contracts.

Union

inter alia relating to

or package travel

, Articles 5 to 19 and Article 23a of this Directive should not apply to contracts relating to financial services and Articles 9 to 19 should not apply to distance and off-premises contracts relating to package travel, without prejudice to other provisions of existing Union legislation. With regard to financial services, Member States should be encouraged to draw inspiration from existing Union legislation in that area when legislating in areas not regulated at Union level, in such a way that a level playing field for all consumers and all contracts relating to financial services is ensured. The Commission should aim at complementing Union legislation in the field of financial services in order to close existing gaps and protect consumers in all types of contracts.

Amendment 9

Amendment 9

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 11 a (new)

Recital 11 a (new)

| (11a) | Articles 9 to 19 of this Directive should be without prejudice to the application of the provisions of the Member States relating to the acquisition of immovable property and guarantees relating to immovable property or the formation or transfer of rights in rem in immovable property. This includes agreements connected with such legal acts, such as sales of immovable property still to be developed and hire-purchase. |
| --- | --- |

(11a)

(11a)

Articles 9 to 19 of this Directive should be without prejudice to the application of the provisions of the Member States relating to the acquisition of immovable property and guarantees relating to immovable property or the formation or transfer of rights in rem in immovable property. This includes agreements connected with such legal acts, such as sales of immovable property still to be developed and hire-purchase.

Articles 9 to 19 of this Directive should be without prejudice to the application of the provisions of the Member States relating to the acquisition of immovable property and guarantees relating to immovable property or the formation or transfer of rights in rem in immovable property. This includes agreements connected with such legal acts, such as sales of immovable property still to be developed and hire-purchase.

Amendment 10

Amendment 10

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 11 b (new)

Recital 11 b (new)

| (11b) | As no difficult psychological situation applies when contracts, in accordance with the provisions of the Member States, are established by a public office-holder, such contracts should be excluded from the scope of Articles 9 to 19 of this Directive. |
| --- | --- |

(11b)

(11b)

As no difficult psychological situation applies when contracts, in accordance with the provisions of the Member States, are established by a public office-holder, such contracts should be excluded from the scope of Articles 9 to 19 of this Directive.

As no difficult psychological situation applies when contracts, in accordance with the provisions of the Member States, are established by a public office-holder, such contracts should be excluded from the scope of Articles 9 to 19 of this Directive.

Amendment 11

Amendment 11

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 11 c (new)

Recital 11 c (new)

| (11c) | For the purposes of this Directive, leasing contracts for motor vehicles, where the motor vehicle is returned at the end of the contract, should be considered as motor vehicle rental services. |
| --- | --- |

(11c)

(11c)

For the purposes of this Directive, leasing contracts for motor vehicles, where the motor vehicle is returned at the end of the contract, should be considered as motor vehicle rental services.

For the purposes of this Directive, leasing contracts for motor vehicles, where the motor vehicle is returned at the end of the contract, should be considered as motor vehicle rental services.

Amendment 12

Amendment 12

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 11 d (new)

Recital 11 d (new)

| (11d) | Many Member States have chosen to apply national consumer protection rules to other entities such as non-governmental organisations, start-up businesses and small and medium-sized enterprises, and other Member States may wish to do so. It should be recalled that Member States may extend the scope of the national rules adopted in order to implement this Directive to cover natural or legal persons who are not consumers within the meaning of this Directive. |
| --- | --- |

(11d)

(11d)

Many Member States have chosen to apply national consumer protection rules to other entities such as non-governmental organisations, start-up businesses and small and medium-sized enterprises, and other Member States may wish to do so. It should be recalled that Member States may extend the scope of the national rules adopted in order to implement this Directive to cover natural or legal persons who are not consumers within the meaning of this Directive.

Many Member States have chosen to apply national consumer protection rules to other entities such as non-governmental organisations, start-up businesses and small and medium-sized enterprises, and other Member States may wish to do so. It should be recalled that Member States may extend the scope of the national rules adopted in order to implement this Directive to cover natural or legal persons who are not consumers within the meaning of this Directive.

Amendment 13

Amendment 13

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 11 e (new)

Recital 11 e (new)

| (11e) | Digital content transmitted to the consumer in a digital format, where the consumer obtains the possibility of use on a permanent basis or in a way similar to the physical possession of a good, should be treated as goods for the application of the provisions of this Directive which apply to sales contracts. However, a withdrawal right should only apply until the moment the consumer chooses to download the digital content. |
| --- | --- |

(11e)

(11e)

Digital content transmitted to the consumer in a digital format, where the consumer obtains the possibility of use on a permanent basis or in a way similar to the physical possession of a good, should be treated as goods for the application of the provisions of this Directive which apply to sales contracts. However, a withdrawal right should only apply until the moment the consumer chooses to download the digital content.

Digital content transmitted to the consumer in a digital format, where the consumer obtains the possibility of use on a permanent basis or in a way similar to the physical possession of a good, should be treated as goods for the application of the provisions of this Directive which apply to sales contracts. However, a withdrawal right should only apply until the moment the consumer chooses to download the digital content.

Amendment 14

Amendment 14

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 12

Recital 12

| (12) | The new definition of distance contract should cover all cases where
  sales and service
  contracts are concluded using exclusively one or more means of distance communication (such as mail order, Internet, telephone or fax). This should create a level playing field for all distance traders.
  It should also improve legal certainty as compared to the current definition requiring the presence of an organised distance selling scheme run by the trader up to the conclusion of the contract. |
| --- | --- |

(12)

The new definition of distance contract should cover all cases where
  sales and service
  contracts are concluded using exclusively one or more means of distance communication (such as mail order, Internet, telephone or fax). This should create a level playing field for all distance traders.
  It should also improve legal certainty as compared to the current definition requiring the presence of an organised distance selling scheme run by the trader up to the conclusion of the contract.

sales and service

It should also improve legal certainty as compared to the current definition requiring the presence of an organised distance selling scheme run by the trader up to the conclusion of the contract.

| (12) | The new definition of distance contract should cover all cases where contracts
  concerning the supply of a good or the provision of a service
  are concluded
  between the trader and the consumer under an organised distance sales or service-provision scheme and without the simultaneous physical presence of the parties,
  using exclusively one or more means of distance communication (such as mail order, Internet, telephone or fax).
  Websites offering only information on the trader, his goods and/or services should not be covered by the definition of such an organised distance sales or service-provision scheme, even if such websites indicate one or more means of distance communication.
  This should create a level playing field for all distance traders. |
| --- | --- |

(12)

The new definition of distance contract should cover all cases where contracts
  concerning the supply of a good or the provision of a service
  are concluded
  between the trader and the consumer under an organised distance sales or service-provision scheme and without the simultaneous physical presence of the parties,
  using exclusively one or more means of distance communication (such as mail order, Internet, telephone or fax).
  Websites offering only information on the trader, his goods and/or services should not be covered by the definition of such an organised distance sales or service-provision scheme, even if such websites indicate one or more means of distance communication.
  This should create a level playing field for all distance traders.

concerning the supply of a good or the provision of a service

between the trader and the consumer under an organised distance sales or service-provision scheme and without the simultaneous physical presence of the parties,

Websites offering only information on the trader, his goods and/or services should not be covered by the definition of such an organised distance sales or service-provision scheme, even if such websites indicate one or more means of distance communication.

Amendment 15

Amendment 15

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 13

Recital 13

| (13) | The particular circumstances under which an offer was made or the contract was negotiated should not be relevant in the definition of a distance contract. The fact that the trader
  is an occasional distance seller or that he
  uses an organised scheme run by a third party such as an online platform, should not deprive consumers of their protection. Similarly, a transaction negotiated face to face between the trader and the consumer away from business premises should be a distance contract, if the contract has then been concluded through the exclusive use of means of distance communication, such as the Internet or telephone. For traders, a simpler definition of a distance contract should improve legal certainty and protect them from unfair competition. |
| --- | --- |

(13)

The particular circumstances under which an offer was made or the contract was negotiated should not be relevant in the definition of a distance contract. The fact that the trader
  is an occasional distance seller or that he
  uses an organised scheme run by a third party such as an online platform, should not deprive consumers of their protection. Similarly, a transaction negotiated face to face between the trader and the consumer away from business premises should be a distance contract, if the contract has then been concluded through the exclusive use of means of distance communication, such as the Internet or telephone. For traders, a simpler definition of a distance contract should improve legal certainty and protect them from unfair competition.

is an occasional distance seller or that he

| (13) | The particular circumstances under which an offer was made or the contract was negotiated should not be relevant in the definition of a distance contract. The fact that the trader uses an organised
  distance sales or service-provision
  scheme run by a third party such as an online platform, should not deprive consumers of their protection. Similarly, a transaction negotiated face to face between the trader and the consumer away from business premises should be a distance contract, if the contract has then been concluded through the exclusive use of means of distance communication, such as the Internet or telephone. For traders, a simpler definition of a distance contract should improve legal certainty and protect them from unfair competition. |
| --- | --- |

(13)

The particular circumstances under which an offer was made or the contract was negotiated should not be relevant in the definition of a distance contract. The fact that the trader uses an organised
  distance sales or service-provision
  scheme run by a third party such as an online platform, should not deprive consumers of their protection. Similarly, a transaction negotiated face to face between the trader and the consumer away from business premises should be a distance contract, if the contract has then been concluded through the exclusive use of means of distance communication, such as the Internet or telephone. For traders, a simpler definition of a distance contract should improve legal certainty and protect them from unfair competition.

distance sales or service-provision

Amendment 16

Amendment 16

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 14

Recital 14

| (14) | An off-premises contract should be defined as a contract concluded with the simultaneous physical presence of the trader and the consumer, away from business premises, for example at the consumer’s home or workplace. In an off-premises context, consumers are
  under
  psychological
  pressure
  no matter whether they have solicited the trader’s visit or not. Furthermore, in order to prevent circumventions of rules when consumers are approached away from business premises, a contract negotiated, for example at the consumer’s home but concluded in a shop should be regarded as an off-premises contract. |
| --- | --- |

(14)

An off-premises contract should be defined as a contract concluded with the simultaneous physical presence of the trader and the consumer, away from business premises, for example at the consumer’s home or workplace. In an off-premises context, consumers are
  under
  psychological
  pressure
  no matter whether they have solicited the trader’s visit or not. Furthermore, in order to prevent circumventions of rules when consumers are approached away from business premises, a contract negotiated, for example at the consumer’s home but concluded in a shop should be regarded as an off-premises contract.

under

pressure

| (14) | An off-premises contract should be defined as a contract concluded with the simultaneous physical presence of the trader and the consumer, away from business premises, for example at the consumer’s home or workplace. In an off-premises context, consumers are
  temporarily in a special situation which is different from the situation in a shop, for instance from a
  psychological
  point of view and as regards the scope for comparing goods and prices,
  no matter whether they have solicited the trader’s visit or not. Furthermore, in order to prevent circumventions of rules when consumers are approached away from business premises, a contract negotiated, for example at the consumer’s home but concluded in a shop should be regarded as an off-premises contract
  only when the main components of the contract have been determined in the course of an excursion, a leisure event or a sales demonstration
  .
  Nevertheless, contracts under which the payment to be made by the consumer does not exceed EUR 40 should not be covered by the information requirements laid down in this Directive, so that for instance street traders, whose goods are supplied immediately, are not overburdened with obligations as regards information. A right of withdrawal is also unnecessary in such cases, since the implications of such contracts are readily understandable. Nevertheless Member States should remain free, and be encouraged, to set a lower value. |
| --- | --- |

(14)

An off-premises contract should be defined as a contract concluded with the simultaneous physical presence of the trader and the consumer, away from business premises, for example at the consumer’s home or workplace. In an off-premises context, consumers are
  temporarily in a special situation which is different from the situation in a shop, for instance from a
  psychological
  point of view and as regards the scope for comparing goods and prices,
  no matter whether they have solicited the trader’s visit or not. Furthermore, in order to prevent circumventions of rules when consumers are approached away from business premises, a contract negotiated, for example at the consumer’s home but concluded in a shop should be regarded as an off-premises contract
  only when the main components of the contract have been determined in the course of an excursion, a leisure event or a sales demonstration
  .
  Nevertheless, contracts under which the payment to be made by the consumer does not exceed EUR 40 should not be covered by the information requirements laid down in this Directive, so that for instance street traders, whose goods are supplied immediately, are not overburdened with obligations as regards information. A right of withdrawal is also unnecessary in such cases, since the implications of such contracts are readily understandable. Nevertheless Member States should remain free, and be encouraged, to set a lower value.

temporarily in a special situation which is different from the situation in a shop, for instance from a

point of view and as regards the scope for comparing goods and prices,

only when the main components of the contract have been determined in the course of an excursion, a leisure event or a sales demonstration

Nevertheless, contracts under which the payment to be made by the consumer does not exceed EUR 40 should not be covered by the information requirements laid down in this Directive, so that for instance street traders, whose goods are supplied immediately, are not overburdened with obligations as regards information. A right of withdrawal is also unnecessary in such cases, since the implications of such contracts are readily understandable. Nevertheless Member States should remain free, and be encouraged, to set a lower value.

Amendment 17

Amendment 17

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 15

Recital 15

| (15) | Business premises should include premises in whatever form (such as shops or lorries) which serve as a permanent place of
  business
  for the trader. Market stalls
  and fair stands
  should be treated as business premises even though they may be used by the trader on a temporary basis. Other premises which are rented for a short time only and where the trader is not established (such as hotels, restaurants, conference centres, cinemas rented by traders who are not established there) should not be regarded as business premises. Similarly, all public spaces including public transport or facilities as well as private homes or workplaces should not be regarded as business premises. |
| --- | --- |

(15)

Business premises should include premises in whatever form (such as shops or lorries) which serve as a permanent place of
  business
  for the trader. Market stalls
  and fair stands
  should be treated as business premises even though they may be used by the trader on a temporary basis. Other premises which are rented for a short time only and where the trader is not established (such as hotels, restaurants, conference centres, cinemas rented by traders who are not established there) should not be regarded as business premises. Similarly, all public spaces including public transport or facilities as well as private homes or workplaces should not be regarded as business premises.

business

and fair stands

| (15) | Business premises should include premises in whatever form (such as shops
  , taxis
  or lorries) which serve as a permanent place of
  activity
  for the trader. Market stalls should be treated as business premises even though they may be used by the trader on a temporary
  or regular
  basis. Other premises which are rented for a short time only and where the trader is not established (such as hotels, restaurants, conference centres, cinemas rented by traders who are not established there) should not be regarded as business premises. Similarly, all public spaces including public transport or facilities as well as private homes or workplaces should not be regarded as business premises. |
| --- | --- |

(15)

Business premises should include premises in whatever form (such as shops
  , taxis
  or lorries) which serve as a permanent place of
  activity
  for the trader. Market stalls should be treated as business premises even though they may be used by the trader on a temporary
  or regular
  basis. Other premises which are rented for a short time only and where the trader is not established (such as hotels, restaurants, conference centres, cinemas rented by traders who are not established there) should not be regarded as business premises. Similarly, all public spaces including public transport or facilities as well as private homes or workplaces should not be regarded as business premises.

, taxis

activity

or regular

Amendment 18

Amendment 18

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 16

Recital 16

| (16) | The definition of
  durable
  medium
  should include in particular
  documents on
  paper, USB sticks, CD-ROMs, DVDs, memory cards and the hard
  drive of the computer on which the
  electronic mail or
  a pdf file is
  stored. |
| --- | --- |

(16)

The definition of
  durable
  medium
  should include in particular
  documents on
  paper, USB sticks, CD-ROMs, DVDs, memory cards and the hard
  drive of the computer on which the
  electronic mail or
  a pdf file is
  stored.

The definition of

medium

documents on

drive of the computer on which the

a pdf file is

| (16) | Durable
  media
  should include in particular paper, USB sticks, CD-ROMs, DVDs, memory cards
  or
  the hard
  disks of computers. In order to qualify as a ‘durable medium’, an
  electronic mail or
  a website should firstly enable the consumer to store the information for as long as it is relevant for him to protect his interests stemming from his relationship with the trader. Secondly, the electronic mail or website should allow for the information to be
  stored
  in such a way as to make it impossible for the trader to change it unilaterally
  . |
| --- | --- |

(16)

Durable
  media
  should include in particular paper, USB sticks, CD-ROMs, DVDs, memory cards
  or
  the hard
  disks of computers. In order to qualify as a ‘durable medium’, an
  electronic mail or
  a website should firstly enable the consumer to store the information for as long as it is relevant for him to protect his interests stemming from his relationship with the trader. Secondly, the electronic mail or website should allow for the information to be
  stored
  in such a way as to make it impossible for the trader to change it unilaterally
  .

media

or

disks of computers. In order to qualify as a ‘durable medium’, an

a website should firstly enable the consumer to store the information for as long as it is relevant for him to protect his interests stemming from his relationship with the trader. Secondly, the electronic mail or website should allow for the information to be

in such a way as to make it impossible for the trader to change it unilaterally

Amendment 19

Amendment 19

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 17

Recital 17

| (17) | Consumers
  should be
  entitled to receive
  information before
  the conclusion of the
  contract.
  However traders should not have to provide the information when already apparent from the context. For example in an on-premises transaction, the main characteristics of a product, the identity of the trader and the arrangements for delivery may be apparent from the context. In distance and off-premises transactions, the trader should always provide the information on arrangements for payment, delivery, performance and the complaint handling policy, since these might not be apparent from the context. |
| --- | --- |

(17)

Consumers
  should be
  entitled to receive
  information before
  the conclusion of the
  contract.
  However traders should not have to provide the information when already apparent from the context. For example in an on-premises transaction, the main characteristics of a product, the identity of the trader and the arrangements for delivery may be apparent from the context. In distance and off-premises transactions, the trader should always provide the information on arrangements for payment, delivery, performance and the complaint handling policy, since these might not be apparent from the context.

Consumers

entitled to receive

the conclusion of the

However traders should not have to provide the information when already apparent from the context. For example in an on-premises transaction, the main characteristics of a product, the identity of the trader and the arrangements for delivery may be apparent from the context. In distance and off-premises transactions, the trader should always provide the information on arrangements for payment, delivery, performance and the complaint handling policy, since these might not be apparent from the context.

| (17) | The consumer
  should be
  given comprehensive
  information before
  he is bound by an on-premises contract, a distance contract, an off-premises
  contract
  or a corresponding contract offer
  .


  In providing that information, the trader should take into account the specific needs of consumers who are particularly vulnerable because of their mental, physical or psychological infirmity, age or credulity in a way which the trader could reasonably be expected to foresee. However, taking into account such specific needs should not lead to different levels of consumer protection. |
| --- | --- |

(17)

The consumer
  should be
  given comprehensive
  information before
  he is bound by an on-premises contract, a distance contract, an off-premises
  contract
  or a corresponding contract offer
  .

The consumer

given comprehensive

he is bound by an on-premises contract, a distance contract, an off-premises

or a corresponding contract offer

In providing that information, the trader should take into account the specific needs of consumers who are particularly vulnerable because of their mental, physical or psychological infirmity, age or credulity in a way which the trader could reasonably be expected to foresee. However, taking into account such specific needs should not lead to different levels of consumer protection.

In providing that information, the trader should take into account the specific needs of consumers who are particularly vulnerable because of their mental, physical or psychological infirmity, age or credulity in a way which the trader could reasonably be expected to foresee. However, taking into account such specific needs should not lead to different levels of consumer protection.

Amendment 228

Amendment 228

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 17 a (new)

Recital 17 a (new)

| (17a) | Notwithstanding the exemption for the trader to provide the information set out in Article 9 on a durable medium when concluding an off-premises mixed contract for which the trader and the consumer immediately perform their contractual obligations and the payment to be made by the consumer does not exceed EUR 200, the consumer should nevertheless be given comprehensive information by the trader on the essential points of the contract, especially as regards the price, before the consumer is bound by that contract. |
| --- | --- |

(17a)

(17a)

Notwithstanding the exemption for the trader to provide the information set out in Article 9 on a durable medium when concluding an off-premises mixed contract for which the trader and the consumer immediately perform their contractual obligations and the payment to be made by the consumer does not exceed EUR 200, the consumer should nevertheless be given comprehensive information by the trader on the essential points of the contract, especially as regards the price, before the consumer is bound by that contract.

Notwithstanding the exemption for the trader to provide the information set out in Article 9 on a durable medium when concluding an off-premises mixed contract for which the trader and the consumer immediately perform their contractual obligations and the payment to be made by the consumer does not exceed EUR 200, the consumer should nevertheless be given comprehensive information by the trader on the essential points of the contract, especially as regards the price, before the consumer is bound by that contract.

Amendment 20

Amendment 20

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 20

Recital 20

| (20) | The consumer should know whether he is contracting with the trader or with an intermediary acting on behalf of another consumer, since in the latter case the consumer may not enjoy the protection under this Directive. Therefore the intermediary should inform of this fact and the consequences thereof. The notion of intermediary should not include online trading platforms which do not conclude the contract in the name of or on behalf of any other party. |
| --- | --- |

(20)

(20)

The consumer should know whether he is contracting with the trader or with an intermediary acting on behalf of another consumer, since in the latter case the consumer may not enjoy the protection under this Directive. Therefore the intermediary should inform of this fact and the consequences thereof. The notion of intermediary should not include online trading platforms which do not conclude the contract in the name of or on behalf of any other party.

The consumer should know whether he is contracting with the trader or with an intermediary acting on behalf of another consumer, since in the latter case the consumer may not enjoy the protection under this Directive. Therefore the intermediary should inform of this fact and the consequences thereof. The notion of intermediary should not include online trading platforms which do not conclude the contract in the name of or on behalf of any other party.

deleted

deleted

Amendment 21

Amendment 21

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 22

Recital 22

| (22) | Since in the case of distance sales, the consumer is not able to see the good before concluding the contract he should have a right of withdrawal,
  which allows him to
  ascertain the nature and functioning of the goods. |
| --- | --- |

(22)

Since in the case of distance sales, the consumer is not able to see the good before concluding the contract he should have a right of withdrawal,
  which allows him to
  ascertain the nature and functioning of the goods.

which allows him to

| (22) | Since in the case of distance sales, the consumer is not able to see the good before concluding the contract he should have a right of withdrawal,
  so that, until the expiration of the withdrawal period, he can
  ascertain the nature
  , quality
  and functioning of the goods.
  Such a right of withdrawal should also be granted for off-premises contracts. |
| --- | --- |

(22)

Since in the case of distance sales, the consumer is not able to see the good before concluding the contract he should have a right of withdrawal,
  so that, until the expiration of the withdrawal period, he can
  ascertain the nature
  , quality
  and functioning of the goods.
  Such a right of withdrawal should also be granted for off-premises contracts.

so that, until the expiration of the withdrawal period, he can

, quality

Such a right of withdrawal should also be granted for off-premises contracts.

Amendment 22

Amendment 22

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 24

Recital 24

| (24) | To ensure legal certainty, it is appropriate that Council Regulation (EEC, Euratom) No 1182/71 of 3 June 1971 determining the rules applicable to periods, dates and time limits should apply to the calculation of the periods contained in this Directive. Therefore, all periods contained in this Directive should be understood to be expressed in calendar days. |
| --- | --- |

(24)

(24)

To ensure legal certainty, it is appropriate that Council Regulation (EEC, Euratom) No 1182/71 of 3 June 1971 determining the rules applicable to periods, dates and time limits should apply to the calculation of the periods contained in this Directive. Therefore, all periods contained in this Directive should be understood to be expressed in calendar days.

To ensure legal certainty, it is appropriate that Council Regulation (EEC, Euratom) No 1182/71 of 3 June 1971 determining the rules applicable to periods, dates and time limits should apply to the calculation of the periods contained in this Directive. Therefore, all periods contained in this Directive should be understood to be expressed in calendar days.

deleted

deleted

Amendment 23

Amendment 23

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 26

Recital 26

| (26) | When the consumer orders more than one good from the same trader, he should be entitled to exercise the right of withdrawal in respect of each of these goods. If the goods are delivered separately
  , the withdrawal period should
  start when
  the consumer acquires the material possession
  of each individual good
  . Where a good is delivered in different lots or pieces, the withdrawal period should
  start when
  the consumer
  or a third party indicated by the consumer
  acquires the material possession of the last lot or piece. |
| --- | --- |

(26)

When the consumer orders more than one good from the same trader, he should be entitled to exercise the right of withdrawal in respect of each of these goods. If the goods are delivered separately
  , the withdrawal period should
  start when
  the consumer acquires the material possession
  of each individual good
  . Where a good is delivered in different lots or pieces, the withdrawal period should
  start when
  the consumer
  or a third party indicated by the consumer
  acquires the material possession of the last lot or piece.

When the consumer orders more than one good from the same trader, he should be entitled to exercise the right of withdrawal in respect of each of these goods. If the goods are delivered separately

start when

of each individual good

start when

or a third party indicated by the consumer

| (26) | Where goods are supplied in more than one delivery
  , the withdrawal period should
  begin from the day on which
  the consumer
  or a third party other than the carrier and indicated by the consumer
  acquires the material possession of the
  first partial shipment
  . Where a good is delivered in different lots or pieces, the withdrawal period should
  begin from the day on which
  the consumer acquires the material possession of the last lot or piece.
  If multiple goods are ordered by the consumer in one order and but are delivered separately, the withdrawal period should start when the consumer acquires possession of the last good. |
| --- | --- |

(26)

Where goods are supplied in more than one delivery
  , the withdrawal period should
  begin from the day on which
  the consumer
  or a third party other than the carrier and indicated by the consumer
  acquires the material possession of the
  first partial shipment
  . Where a good is delivered in different lots or pieces, the withdrawal period should
  begin from the day on which
  the consumer acquires the material possession of the last lot or piece.
  If multiple goods are ordered by the consumer in one order and but are delivered separately, the withdrawal period should start when the consumer acquires possession of the last good.

Where goods are supplied in more than one delivery

begin from the day on which

or a third party other than the carrier and indicated by the consumer

first partial shipment

begin from the day on which

If multiple goods are ordered by the consumer in one order and but are delivered separately, the withdrawal period should start when the consumer acquires possession of the last good.

Amendment 24

Amendment 24

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 27

Recital 27

| (27) | If the trader has not informed the consumer on the right of withdrawal prior to the conclusion of a distance or off-premises contract, the withdrawal period should be extended. However, in order to ensure legal certainty over time, a
  three-month
  limitation period should be introduced
  , provided that the trader has fully performed his contractual obligations
  .
  The trader should be regarded as having fully performed his obligations when he has delivered the goods or has fully provided the services ordered by the consumer. |
| --- | --- |

(27)

If the trader has not informed the consumer on the right of withdrawal prior to the conclusion of a distance or off-premises contract, the withdrawal period should be extended. However, in order to ensure legal certainty over time, a
  three-month
  limitation period should be introduced
  , provided that the trader has fully performed his contractual obligations
  .
  The trader should be regarded as having fully performed his obligations when he has delivered the goods or has fully provided the services ordered by the consumer.

three-month

, provided that the trader has fully performed his contractual obligations

The trader should be regarded as having fully performed his obligations when he has delivered the goods or has fully provided the services ordered by the consumer.

| (27) | If the trader has not informed the consumer on the right of withdrawal prior to the conclusion of a distance or off-premises contract, the withdrawal period should be extended. However, in order to ensure legal certainty over time, a
  one-year
  limitation period should be introduced.
  However, Member States should be allowed to maintain existing national legislation to extend that limitation period
  . |
| --- | --- |

(27)

If the trader has not informed the consumer on the right of withdrawal prior to the conclusion of a distance or off-premises contract, the withdrawal period should be extended. However, in order to ensure legal certainty over time, a
  one-year
  limitation period should be introduced.
  However, Member States should be allowed to maintain existing national legislation to extend that limitation period
  .

one-year

However, Member States should be allowed to maintain existing national legislation to extend that limitation period

Amendment 229

Amendment 229

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 28

Recital 28

| (28) | Differences in the ways in which the right of withdrawal is exercised in the Member States have caused costs for businesses selling cross-border. The introduction of a harmonised standard withdrawal form
  to be used by
  the consumer should simplify the withdrawal process and bring legal certainty. For these reasons, Member States should refrain from adding any presentational requirements to the
  Community-wide
  standard form relating for example to the font size. |
| --- | --- |

(28)

Differences in the ways in which the right of withdrawal is exercised in the Member States have caused costs for businesses selling cross-border. The introduction of a harmonised standard withdrawal form
  to be used by
  the consumer should simplify the withdrawal process and bring legal certainty. For these reasons, Member States should refrain from adding any presentational requirements to the
  Community-wide
  standard form relating for example to the font size.

to be used by

Community-wide

| (28) | Differences in the ways in which the right of withdrawal is exercised in the Member States have caused costs for businesses selling cross-border. The introduction of a harmonised standard withdrawal form
  that
  the consumer
  may use
  should simplify the withdrawal process and bring legal certainty. For these reasons, Member States should refrain from adding any presentational requirements to the
  Union-wide
  standard form relating for example to the font size.
  However, the consumer should remain free to withdraw using his own chosen wording, provided that his statement to the trader is clearly worded. Sending back the goods, sending a letter or a making a telephone call could also meet this requirement, but the burden of proof for demonstrating having withdrawn within the time limits specified in this Directive may be on the consumer. For this reason, it is in the interest of the consumer to make use of a durable medium when communicating his withdrawal to the trader. |
| --- | --- |

(28)

Differences in the ways in which the right of withdrawal is exercised in the Member States have caused costs for businesses selling cross-border. The introduction of a harmonised standard withdrawal form
  that
  the consumer
  may use
  should simplify the withdrawal process and bring legal certainty. For these reasons, Member States should refrain from adding any presentational requirements to the
  Union-wide
  standard form relating for example to the font size.
  However, the consumer should remain free to withdraw using his own chosen wording, provided that his statement to the trader is clearly worded. Sending back the goods, sending a letter or a making a telephone call could also meet this requirement, but the burden of proof for demonstrating having withdrawn within the time limits specified in this Directive may be on the consumer. For this reason, it is in the interest of the consumer to make use of a durable medium when communicating his withdrawal to the trader.

that

may use

Union-wide

However, the consumer should remain free to withdraw using his own chosen wording, provided that his statement to the trader is clearly worded. Sending back the goods, sending a letter or a making a telephone call could also meet this requirement, but the burden of proof for demonstrating having withdrawn within the time limits specified in this Directive may be on the consumer. For this reason, it is in the interest of the consumer to make use of a durable medium when communicating his withdrawal to the trader.

Amendment 26

Amendment 26

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 30

Recital 30

| (30) | In case of withdrawal the trader should reimburse all payments received from the consumer, including those covering the expenses born by the trader to deliver goods to the consumer. |
| --- | --- |

(30)

In case of withdrawal the trader should reimburse all payments received from the consumer, including those covering the expenses born by the trader to deliver goods to the consumer.

| (30) | In case of withdrawal the trader should reimburse all payments received from the consumer, including those covering the expenses born by the trader to deliver goods to the consumer
  , with the exception of payments for express deliveries at the express wish of the consumer
  .
  Reimbursement should be possible by any means of payment, provided they are legal tender in the Member State where the consumer receives it. Therefore, reimbursement shall not take place in the form of vouchers or credit notes. |
| --- | --- |

(30)

In case of withdrawal the trader should reimburse all payments received from the consumer, including those covering the expenses born by the trader to deliver goods to the consumer
  , with the exception of payments for express deliveries at the express wish of the consumer
  .
  Reimbursement should be possible by any means of payment, provided they are legal tender in the Member State where the consumer receives it. Therefore, reimbursement shall not take place in the form of vouchers or credit notes.

, with the exception of payments for express deliveries at the express wish of the consumer

Reimbursement should be possible by any means of payment, provided they are legal tender in the Member State where the consumer receives it. Therefore, reimbursement shall not take place in the form of vouchers or credit notes.

Amendment 230

Amendment 230

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 32

Recital 32

| (32) | In order to avoid the trader reimbursing a consumer who has not returned the goods, the consumer should be required to send back the goods no later than fourteen days after having informed the trader about his decision to withdraw. |
| --- | --- |

(32)

In order to avoid the trader reimbursing a consumer who has not returned the goods, the consumer should be required to send back the goods no later than fourteen days after having informed the trader about his decision to withdraw.

| (32) | In order to avoid the trader reimbursing a consumer who has not returned the goods, the consumer should be required to send back the goods no later than fourteen days after having informed the trader about his decision to withdraw.
  By the same token, the trader should also be enabled to make reimbursement subject to the condition that the consumer has supplied evidence of having sent back the goods. |
| --- | --- |

(32)

In order to avoid the trader reimbursing a consumer who has not returned the goods, the consumer should be required to send back the goods no later than fourteen days after having informed the trader about his decision to withdraw.
  By the same token, the trader should also be enabled to make reimbursement subject to the condition that the consumer has supplied evidence of having sent back the goods.

By the same token, the trader should also be enabled to make reimbursement subject to the condition that the consumer has supplied evidence of having sent back the goods.

Amendment 231

Amendment 231

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 33

Recital 33

| (33) | Certain exemptions should exist from the right of withdrawal, such as in cases where a right of withdrawal would be inappropriate given the nature of the product. That is applicable for example to wine supplied a long time after the conclusion of the contract of a speculative nature where the value is dependent on fluctuations in the market (vin en primeur). |
| --- | --- |

(33)

Certain exemptions should exist from the right of withdrawal, such as in cases where a right of withdrawal would be inappropriate given the nature of the product. That is applicable for example to wine supplied a long time after the conclusion of the contract of a speculative nature where the value is dependent on fluctuations in the market (vin en primeur).

| (33) | Certain exemptions should exist from the right of withdrawal, such as in cases where a right of withdrawal would be inappropriate given the nature of the product
  , and exercising a right of withdrawal would unfairly disadvantage the trader
  . That is applicable
  in particular to foodstuffs and other hygienically sensitive or perishable goods,
  for example to wine supplied a long time after the conclusion of the contract of a speculative nature where the value is dependent on fluctuations in the market (vin en primeur).
  Certain other goods or services whose price is dependent on market fluctuations, for instance commodities such as fuel oil, should also be exempt from the right of withdrawal. |
| --- | --- |

(33)

Certain exemptions should exist from the right of withdrawal, such as in cases where a right of withdrawal would be inappropriate given the nature of the product
  , and exercising a right of withdrawal would unfairly disadvantage the trader
  . That is applicable
  in particular to foodstuffs and other hygienically sensitive or perishable goods,
  for example to wine supplied a long time after the conclusion of the contract of a speculative nature where the value is dependent on fluctuations in the market (vin en primeur).
  Certain other goods or services whose price is dependent on market fluctuations, for instance commodities such as fuel oil, should also be exempt from the right of withdrawal.

, and exercising a right of withdrawal would unfairly disadvantage the trader

in particular to foodstuffs and other hygienically sensitive or perishable goods,

Certain other goods or services whose price is dependent on market fluctuations, for instance commodities such as fuel oil, should also be exempt from the right of withdrawal.

Amendment 28

Amendment 28

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 34

Recital 34

| (34) | Furthermore, in case of distance contracts for the provision of services, for which the performance begins during the withdrawal period (
  e.g.
  data files downloaded by the consumer during that period), it would be unfair to allow the consumer to withdraw after the service has been enjoyed by the consumer in full or in part. Therefore the consumer should lose his right of withdrawal when performance begins with his prior express agreement. |
| --- | --- |

(34)

Furthermore, in case of distance contracts for the provision of services, for which the performance begins during the withdrawal period (
  e.g.
  data files downloaded by the consumer during that period), it would be unfair to allow the consumer to withdraw after the service has been enjoyed by the consumer in full or in part. Therefore the consumer should lose his right of withdrawal when performance begins with his prior express agreement.

e.g.

| (34) | Furthermore, in case of distance
  and off-premises
  contracts for the provision of services, for which the performance begins during the withdrawal period (
  for instance
  data files downloaded by the consumer during that period), it would be unfair to allow the consumer to withdraw after the service has been enjoyed by the consumer in full or in part. Therefore the consumer should lose his right of withdrawal when performance begins with his prior express agreement
  , provided that such agreement constitutes informed consent, that is to say that the consumer has been informed of the consequences of this decision in terms of losing his right of withdrawal
  . |
| --- | --- |

(34)

Furthermore, in case of distance
  and off-premises
  contracts for the provision of services, for which the performance begins during the withdrawal period (
  for instance
  data files downloaded by the consumer during that period), it would be unfair to allow the consumer to withdraw after the service has been enjoyed by the consumer in full or in part. Therefore the consumer should lose his right of withdrawal when performance begins with his prior express agreement
  , provided that such agreement constitutes informed consent, that is to say that the consumer has been informed of the consequences of this decision in terms of losing his right of withdrawal
  .

and off-premises

for instance

, provided that such agreement constitutes informed consent, that is to say that the consumer has been informed of the consequences of this decision in terms of losing his right of withdrawal

Amendment 29

Amendment 29

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 37

Recital 37

| (37) | For the purpose of simplification and legal certainty, the right of withdrawal should apply to all types of off-premises contracts, except under strictly defined circumstances which can easily be proved.
  Therefore, no right of withdrawal should apply for urgent repairs at the consumer’s home for which such a right of withdrawal would be incompatible with the emergency situation as well as for supermarket home-delivery schemes which allow consumers to select food, drinks and other goods intended for current consumption in the household through the supermarket’s website and have them delivered at their home. These are goods, which are inexpensive and bought regularly by consumers for their every day’s consumption or everyday use in the household and should therefore not be subject to a right of withdrawal. The main difficulties encountered by consumers and the main source of disputes with traders are about delivery of goods, including goods getting lost or damaged during transport and late and partial delivery. Therefore it is appropriate to clarify and harmonise the national rules on delivery and passing of risk. |
| --- | --- |

(37)

For the purpose of simplification and legal certainty, the right of withdrawal should apply to all types of off-premises contracts, except under strictly defined circumstances which can easily be proved.
  Therefore, no right of withdrawal should apply for urgent repairs at the consumer’s home for which such a right of withdrawal would be incompatible with the emergency situation as well as for supermarket home-delivery schemes which allow consumers to select food, drinks and other goods intended for current consumption in the household through the supermarket’s website and have them delivered at their home. These are goods, which are inexpensive and bought regularly by consumers for their every day’s consumption or everyday use in the household and should therefore not be subject to a right of withdrawal. The main difficulties encountered by consumers and the main source of disputes with traders are about delivery of goods, including goods getting lost or damaged during transport and late and partial delivery. Therefore it is appropriate to clarify and harmonise the national rules on delivery and passing of risk.

Therefore, no right of withdrawal should apply for urgent repairs at the consumer’s home for which such a right of withdrawal would be incompatible with the emergency situation as well as for supermarket home-delivery schemes which allow consumers to select food, drinks and other goods intended for current consumption in the household through the supermarket’s website and have them delivered at their home. These are goods, which are inexpensive and bought regularly by consumers for their every day’s consumption or everyday use in the household and should therefore not be subject to a right of withdrawal. The main difficulties encountered by consumers and the main source of disputes with traders are about delivery of goods, including goods getting lost or damaged during transport and late and partial delivery. Therefore it is appropriate to clarify and harmonise the national rules on delivery and passing of risk.

| (37) | For the purpose of simplification and legal certainty, the right of withdrawal should apply to all types of
  distance and
  off-premises contracts, except under strictly defined circumstances which can easily be proved. |
| --- | --- |

(37)

For the purpose of simplification and legal certainty, the right of withdrawal should apply to all types of
  distance and
  off-premises contracts, except under strictly defined circumstances which can easily be proved.

distance and

Amendment 30

Amendment 30

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 37 a (new)

Recital 37 a (new)

| (37a) | The main difficulties encountered by consumers and the main source of disputes with traders concern delivery of goods, including goods getting lost or damaged during transport and late or partial delivery. Therefore it is appropriate to harmonise the national rules on delivery and passing of risk. |
| --- | --- |

(37a)

(37a)

The main difficulties encountered by consumers and the main source of disputes with traders concern delivery of goods, including goods getting lost or damaged during transport and late or partial delivery. Therefore it is appropriate to harmonise the national rules on delivery and passing of risk.

The main difficulties encountered by consumers and the main source of disputes with traders concern delivery of goods, including goods getting lost or damaged during transport and late or partial delivery. Therefore it is appropriate to harmonise the national rules on delivery and passing of risk.

Amendment 31

Amendment 31

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 37 b (new)

Recital 37 b (new)

| (37b) | Where the trader has failed to fulfil his obligations to deliver the goods, the consumer should call upon him, on a durable medium, to make the delivery within no less than seven days and notify him of his intention to withdraw from the contract if delivery does not take place. The consumer should be deemed to have withdrawn from the contract if no action has been taken by the time the deadline expires. Without prejudice to his rights to claim damages, the consumer should be entitled to reimbursement within seven days of withdrawal if payment has already been made. It should be possible for Member States to adopt or maintain provisions of national law, in order to ensure a higher level of consumer protection. |
| --- | --- |

(37b)

(37b)

Where the trader has failed to fulfil his obligations to deliver the goods, the consumer should call upon him, on a durable medium, to make the delivery within no less than seven days and notify him of his intention to withdraw from the contract if delivery does not take place. The consumer should be deemed to have withdrawn from the contract if no action has been taken by the time the deadline expires. Without prejudice to his rights to claim damages, the consumer should be entitled to reimbursement within seven days of withdrawal if payment has already been made. It should be possible for Member States to adopt or maintain provisions of national law, in order to ensure a higher level of consumer protection.

Where the trader has failed to fulfil his obligations to deliver the goods, the consumer should call upon him, on a durable medium, to make the delivery within no less than seven days and notify him of his intention to withdraw from the contract if delivery does not take place. The consumer should be deemed to have withdrawn from the contract if no action has been taken by the time the deadline expires. Without prejudice to his rights to claim damages, the consumer should be entitled to reimbursement within seven days of withdrawal if payment has already been made. It should be possible for Member States to adopt or maintain provisions of national law, in order to ensure a higher level of consumer protection.

Amendment 32

Amendment 32

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 38

Recital 38

| (38) | In the context of consumer sales, the delivery of goods can take place in various ways.
  Only a rule which may be freely derogated from will allow the necessary flexibility to take into account those variations.
  The consumer should be protected against any risk of loss or damage of the goods occurring during the transport arranged or carried out by the trader. The rule introduced on the passing of risk should not apply where the consumer unduly delays taking possession of the goods (for example, when the goods are not collected by the consumer from the post-office within the deadline fixed by the latter). In those circumstances, the consumer should bear the risk of loss or deterioration after the time of delivery as agreed with the trader. |
| --- | --- |

(38)

In the context of consumer sales, the delivery of goods can take place in various ways.
  Only a rule which may be freely derogated from will allow the necessary flexibility to take into account those variations.
  The consumer should be protected against any risk of loss or damage of the goods occurring during the transport arranged or carried out by the trader. The rule introduced on the passing of risk should not apply where the consumer unduly delays taking possession of the goods (for example, when the goods are not collected by the consumer from the post-office within the deadline fixed by the latter). In those circumstances, the consumer should bear the risk of loss or deterioration after the time of delivery as agreed with the trader.

Only a rule which may be freely derogated from will allow the necessary flexibility to take into account those variations.

| (38) | In the context of consumer sales, the delivery of goods can take place in various ways
  : either immediately or at a later date
  .
  If the parties have not agreed on a specific delivery date, the trader should deliver the goods as soon as possible but in any event not later than thirty days from the day of the conclusion of the contract.
  The consumer should be protected against any risk of loss or damage of the goods occurring during the transport arranged or carried out by the trader. The rule introduced on the passing of risk should not apply where the consumer unduly delays taking possession of the goods (for example, when the goods are not collected by the consumer from the post-office within the deadline fixed by the latter). In those circumstances, the consumer should bear the risk of loss or deterioration after the time of delivery as agreed with the trader. |
| --- | --- |

(38)

In the context of consumer sales, the delivery of goods can take place in various ways
  : either immediately or at a later date
  .
  If the parties have not agreed on a specific delivery date, the trader should deliver the goods as soon as possible but in any event not later than thirty days from the day of the conclusion of the contract.
  The consumer should be protected against any risk of loss or damage of the goods occurring during the transport arranged or carried out by the trader. The rule introduced on the passing of risk should not apply where the consumer unduly delays taking possession of the goods (for example, when the goods are not collected by the consumer from the post-office within the deadline fixed by the latter). In those circumstances, the consumer should bear the risk of loss or deterioration after the time of delivery as agreed with the trader.

: either immediately or at a later date

If the parties have not agreed on a specific delivery date, the trader should deliver the goods as soon as possible but in any event not later than thirty days from the day of the conclusion of the contract.

Amendment 33

Amendment 33

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 38 a (new)

Recital 38 a (new)

| (38a) | In many transactions consumers are provided with insufficient choices of means of payments or they are charged if they refuse to use certain means. This situation should be addressed by means of a provision which ensures that the trader will offer to the consumer different means of payment and, in the case of distance contracts, these should include both electronic and non-electronic means of payment. An example of a non-electronic system of payment would be the printing of an order from the trader’s website to be paid in cash at a bank or at any other contact point of the trader. |
| --- | --- |

(38a)

(38a)

In many transactions consumers are provided with insufficient choices of means of payments or they are charged if they refuse to use certain means. This situation should be addressed by means of a provision which ensures that the trader will offer to the consumer different means of payment and, in the case of distance contracts, these should include both electronic and non-electronic means of payment. An example of a non-electronic system of payment would be the printing of an order from the trader’s website to be paid in cash at a bank or at any other contact point of the trader.

In many transactions consumers are provided with insufficient choices of means of payments or they are charged if they refuse to use certain means. This situation should be addressed by means of a provision which ensures that the trader will offer to the consumer different means of payment and, in the case of distance contracts, these should include both electronic and non-electronic means of payment. An example of a non-electronic system of payment would be the printing of an order from the trader’s website to be paid in cash at a bank or at any other contact point of the trader.

Amendment 34

Amendment 34

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 39

Recital 39

| (39) | The trader should be liable to the consumer if the goods are not in conformity with the contract. The goods should be presumed to be in conformity with the contract if they satisfy a number of conditions concerning mainly the
  qualities
  of the goods. The quality and performance which consumers can reasonably expect will depend inter alia on whether the goods are new or second-hand as well as on the expected life-span of the goods. |
| --- | --- |

(39)

The trader should be liable to the consumer if the goods are not in conformity with the contract. The goods should be presumed to be in conformity with the contract if they satisfy a number of conditions concerning mainly the
  qualities
  of the goods. The quality and performance which consumers can reasonably expect will depend inter alia on whether the goods are new or second-hand as well as on the expected life-span of the goods.

qualities

| (39) | The trader should be liable to the consumer if the goods are not in conformity with the contract. The goods should be presumed to be in conformity with the contract if they satisfy a number of conditions concerning mainly the
  quality and quantity
  of the goods. The quality and performance which consumers can reasonably expect will depend inter alia on whether the goods are new or second-hand as well as on the expected life-span of the goods.
  Where goods other than those ordered have been delivered, or in the event of undershipment, the goods should be presumed not to be in conformity with the contract. |
| --- | --- |

(39)

The trader should be liable to the consumer if the goods are not in conformity with the contract. The goods should be presumed to be in conformity with the contract if they satisfy a number of conditions concerning mainly the
  quality and quantity
  of the goods. The quality and performance which consumers can reasonably expect will depend inter alia on whether the goods are new or second-hand as well as on the expected life-span of the goods.
  Where goods other than those ordered have been delivered, or in the event of undershipment, the goods should be presumed not to be in conformity with the contract.

quality and quantity

Where goods other than those ordered have been delivered, or in the event of undershipment, the goods should be presumed not to be in conformity with the contract.

Amendment 35

Amendment 35

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 40

Recital 40

| (40) | If the good is not in conformity with the contract, firstly, the consumer should have the possibility to require the trader to repair the goods or to replace them at the trader’s choice unless the trader proves that those remedies are unlawful, impossible or causes the trader disproportionate effort. The trader’s effort should be determined objectively considering costs incurred by the trader when remedying the lack of conformity, the value of the goods and the significance of the lack of conformity. The lack of spare parts should not be a valid ground to justify the trader’s failure to remedy the lack of conformity within a reasonable time or without a disproportionate effort. |
| --- | --- |

(40)

If the good is not in conformity with the contract, firstly, the consumer should have the possibility to require the trader to repair the goods or to replace them at the trader’s choice unless the trader proves that those remedies are unlawful, impossible or causes the trader disproportionate effort. The trader’s effort should be determined objectively considering costs incurred by the trader when remedying the lack of conformity, the value of the goods and the significance of the lack of conformity. The lack of spare parts should not be a valid ground to justify the trader’s failure to remedy the lack of conformity within a reasonable time or without a disproportionate effort.

If the good is not in conformity with the contract, firstly, the consumer should have the possibility to require the trader to repair the goods or to replace them at the trader’s choice unless the trader proves that those remedies are unlawful, impossible or causes the trader disproportionate effort. The trader’s effort should be determined objectively considering costs incurred by the trader when remedying the lack of conformity, the value of the goods and the significance of the lack of conformity. The lack of spare parts should not be a valid ground to justify the trader’s failure to remedy the lack of conformity within a reasonable time or without a disproportionate effort.

| (40) | The consumer should in the first instance have the option of requiring the trader to repair the goods or to replace them unless those remedies are impossible or disproportionate. Whether or not a remedy is disproportionate should be determined objectively. A remedy should be considered disproportionate if it imposes, in comparison with other remedies, unreasonable costs. In order to determine whether the costs are unreasonable, the costs of one remedy should be significantly higher than the costs of another remedy. |
| --- | --- |

(40)

The consumer should in the first instance have the option of requiring the trader to repair the goods or to replace them unless those remedies are impossible or disproportionate. Whether or not a remedy is disproportionate should be determined objectively. A remedy should be considered disproportionate if it imposes, in comparison with other remedies, unreasonable costs. In order to determine whether the costs are unreasonable, the costs of one remedy should be significantly higher than the costs of another remedy.

The consumer should in the first instance have the option of requiring the trader to repair the goods or to replace them unless those remedies are impossible or disproportionate. Whether or not a remedy is disproportionate should be determined objectively. A remedy should be considered disproportionate if it imposes, in comparison with other remedies, unreasonable costs. In order to determine whether the costs are unreasonable, the costs of one remedy should be significantly higher than the costs of another remedy.

Amendment 36

Amendment 36

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 41

Recital 41

| (41) | The consumer should not bear any costs for remedying the lack of conformity, particularly the cost of postage, labour and materials. Furthermore, the consumer should not compensate the trader for the use of the defective goods. |
| --- | --- |

(41)

The consumer should not bear any costs for remedying the lack of conformity, particularly the cost of postage, labour and materials. Furthermore, the consumer should not compensate the trader for the use of the defective goods.

| (41) | The consumer should not bear any costs for remedying the lack of conformity, particularly the cost of postage, labour and materials. Furthermore, the consumer should not compensate the trader for the use of the defective goods.
  The consumer should be entitled to claim damages, in accordance with provisions of applicable national law, for any loss resulting from lack of conformity with the sales contract and not remedied by the trader. It should be possible for such damages to include non-pecuniary damages where applicable national law so provides
  . |
| --- | --- |

(41)

The consumer should not bear any costs for remedying the lack of conformity, particularly the cost of postage, labour and materials. Furthermore, the consumer should not compensate the trader for the use of the defective goods.
  The consumer should be entitled to claim damages, in accordance with provisions of applicable national law, for any loss resulting from lack of conformity with the sales contract and not remedied by the trader. It should be possible for such damages to include non-pecuniary damages where applicable national law so provides
  .

The consumer should be entitled to claim damages, in accordance with provisions of applicable national law, for any loss resulting from lack of conformity with the sales contract and not remedied by the trader. It should be possible for such damages to include non-pecuniary damages where applicable national law so provides

Amendment 37

Amendment 37

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 42

Recital 42

| (42) | When the trader has either refused or has more than once failed to remedy the lack of conformity
  the consumer should be entitled to choose freely any of the available remedies.
  The trader’s refusal can be either explicit or implicit, meaning in the latter case that the trader does not respond or ignores the consumer’s request to remedy the
  lack of conformity. |
| --- | --- |

(42)

When the trader has either refused or has more than once failed to remedy the lack of conformity
  the consumer should be entitled to choose freely any of the available remedies.
  The trader’s refusal can be either explicit or implicit, meaning in the latter case that the trader does not respond or ignores the consumer’s request to remedy the
  lack of conformity.

When the trader has either refused or has more than once failed to remedy the lack of conformity

The trader’s refusal can be either explicit or implicit, meaning in the latter case that the trader does not respond or ignores the consumer’s request to remedy the

| (42) | The consumer should be entitled to choose freely any of the available remedies
  if he is not entitled to have the goods repaired or replaced
  .
  It should be possible for Member States to adopt or maintain provisions of national law on the free choice of remedies in the event of
  lack of conformity
  , in order to ensure a higher level of consumer protection
  . |
| --- | --- |

(42)

The consumer should be entitled to choose freely any of the available remedies
  if he is not entitled to have the goods repaired or replaced
  .
  It should be possible for Member States to adopt or maintain provisions of national law on the free choice of remedies in the event of
  lack of conformity
  , in order to ensure a higher level of consumer protection
  .

if he is not entitled to have the goods repaired or replaced

It should be possible for Member States to adopt or maintain provisions of national law on the free choice of remedies in the event of

, in order to ensure a higher level of consumer protection

Amendment 38

Amendment 38

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 42 a (new)

Recital 42 a (new)

| (42a) | It should be stipulated that in certain cases the trader may be held liable for a lack of conformity that existed at the time the risk was transferred to the consumer, even if the lack of conformity becomes apparent only subsequently. |
| --- | --- |

(42a)

(42a)

It should be stipulated that in certain cases the trader may be held liable for a lack of conformity that existed at the time the risk was transferred to the consumer, even if the lack of conformity becomes apparent only subsequently.

It should be stipulated that in certain cases the trader may be held liable for a lack of conformity that existed at the time the risk was transferred to the consumer, even if the lack of conformity becomes apparent only subsequently.

Amendment 39

Amendment 39

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 42 b (new)

Recital 42 b (new)

| (42b) | Where the trader, as final seller, is liable to the consumer because of an act or omission by the producer, it should be ensured that the trader, as final seller, can pursue remedies against the person or persons liable in the contractual chain. To this end, Member States’ national provisions should determine the person or persons liable, together with the relevant actions and procedure. |
| --- | --- |

(42b)

(42b)

Where the trader, as final seller, is liable to the consumer because of an act or omission by the producer, it should be ensured that the trader, as final seller, can pursue remedies against the person or persons liable in the contractual chain. To this end, Member States’ national provisions should determine the person or persons liable, together with the relevant actions and procedure.

Where the trader, as final seller, is liable to the consumer because of an act or omission by the producer, it should be ensured that the trader, as final seller, can pursue remedies against the person or persons liable in the contractual chain. To this end, Member States’ national provisions should determine the person or persons liable, together with the relevant actions and procedure.

Amendment 40

Amendment 40

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 42 c (new)

Recital 42 c (new)

| (42c) | With regard to lack of conformity, the consumer should be entitled to a two-year liability period. There should be a rebuttable presumption in the consumer’s favour that any lack of conformity which has become apparent within six months after the risk passed to the consumer already existed when the risk passed. It should be possible for Member States to adopt or maintain provisions of national law on liability periods, duration for reversal of the burden of proof or specific rules on significant lack of conformity which becomes apparent after the liability period, in order to ensure a higher level of consumer protection. |
| --- | --- |

(42c)

(42c)

With regard to lack of conformity, the consumer should be entitled to a two-year liability period. There should be a rebuttable presumption in the consumer’s favour that any lack of conformity which has become apparent within six months after the risk passed to the consumer already existed when the risk passed. It should be possible for Member States to adopt or maintain provisions of national law on liability periods, duration for reversal of the burden of proof or specific rules on significant lack of conformity which becomes apparent after the liability period, in order to ensure a higher level of consumer protection.

With regard to lack of conformity, the consumer should be entitled to a two-year liability period. There should be a rebuttable presumption in the consumer’s favour that any lack of conformity which has become apparent within six months after the risk passed to the consumer already existed when the risk passed. It should be possible for Member States to adopt or maintain provisions of national law on liability periods, duration for reversal of the burden of proof or specific rules on significant lack of conformity which becomes apparent after the liability period, in order to ensure a higher level of consumer protection.

Amendment 41

Amendment 41

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 43

Recital 43

| (43) | Directive 1999/44/EC allowed the Member States to set a period of at least two months during which the consumer was to inform the trader of any lack of conformity. The diverging transposition laws have created barriers to trade. Therefore, it is necessary to remove this regulatory option and improve legal certainty by obliging consumers to inform the trader of the lack of conformity within two months from the date of detection. |
| --- | --- |

(43)

(43)

Directive 1999/44/EC allowed the Member States to set a period of at least two months during which the consumer was to inform the trader of any lack of conformity. The diverging transposition laws have created barriers to trade. Therefore, it is necessary to remove this regulatory option and improve legal certainty by obliging consumers to inform the trader of the lack of conformity within two months from the date of detection.

Directive 1999/44/EC allowed the Member States to set a period of at least two months during which the consumer was to inform the trader of any lack of conformity. The diverging transposition laws have created barriers to trade. Therefore, it is necessary to remove this regulatory option and improve legal certainty by obliging consumers to inform the trader of the lack of conformity within two months from the date of detection.

deleted

deleted

Amendment 42

Amendment 42

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 44

Recital 44

| (44) | Some traders or producers offer consumers commercial guarantees. In order to ensure that consumers are not misled, the commercial guarantees should include certain information, including their duration, territorial scope and a statement that the commercial guarantee does not affect the consumer’s legal rights. |
| --- | --- |

(44)

Some traders or producers offer consumers commercial guarantees. In order to ensure that consumers are not misled, the commercial guarantees should include certain information, including their duration, territorial scope and a statement that the commercial guarantee does not affect the consumer’s legal rights.

| (44) | Some traders or producers offer consumers commercial guarantees. In order to ensure that consumers are not misled, the commercial guarantees should include certain information, including their duration, territorial scope and a statement that the commercial guarantee does not affect the consumer’s legal rights
  under the national provisions in force and those laid down in this Directive
  . |
| --- | --- |

(44)

Some traders or producers offer consumers commercial guarantees. In order to ensure that consumers are not misled, the commercial guarantees should include certain information, including their duration, territorial scope and a statement that the commercial guarantee does not affect the consumer’s legal rights
  under the national provisions in force and those laid down in this Directive
  .

under the national provisions in force and those laid down in this Directive

Amendment 43

Amendment 43

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 45 a (new)

Recital 45 a (new)

| (45a) | The harmonised regulatory aspects concern only contracts concluded between traders and consumers. Therefore, the provisions on unfair contract terms should not affect national law in the area of contracts relating to employment, contracts relating to succession rights, contracts relating to family law and contracts relating to the incorporation and organisation of companies or partnership agreements and bond terms. |
| --- | --- |

(45a)

(45a)

The harmonised regulatory aspects concern only contracts concluded between traders and consumers. Therefore, the provisions on unfair contract terms should not affect national law in the area of contracts relating to employment, contracts relating to succession rights, contracts relating to family law and contracts relating to the incorporation and organisation of companies or partnership agreements and bond terms.

The harmonised regulatory aspects concern only contracts concluded between traders and consumers. Therefore, the provisions on unfair contract terms should not affect national law in the area of contracts relating to employment, contracts relating to succession rights, contracts relating to family law and contracts relating to the incorporation and organisation of companies or partnership agreements and bond terms.

Amendment 44

Amendment 44

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 46

Recital 46

| (46) | Provisions on unfair contract terms should not apply to contract terms, which directly or indirectly reflect
  mandatory
  statutory or
  regulatory
  provisions of the Member States which comply with
  Community
  law. Similarly terms which reflect the principles or provisions of international conventions to which the
  Community
  or the Member States are party, particularly in the transport area, should not be subject to the unfairness test. |
| --- | --- |

(46)

Provisions on unfair contract terms should not apply to contract terms, which directly or indirectly reflect
  mandatory
  statutory or
  regulatory
  provisions of the Member States which comply with
  Community
  law. Similarly terms which reflect the principles or provisions of international conventions to which the
  Community
  or the Member States are party, particularly in the transport area, should not be subject to the unfairness test.

mandatory

regulatory

Community

Community

| (46) | Provisions on unfair contract terms should not apply to contract terms, which directly or indirectly reflect statutory
  , regulatory
  or
  public policy
  provisions of the Member States which comply with
  Union
  law. Similarly
  , contract
  terms
  should reflect the principles and provisions of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. Terms
  which reflect the principles or provisions of international conventions to which the
  Union
  or the Member States are party, particularly in the transport area, should not be subject to the unfairness test. |
| --- | --- |

(46)

Provisions on unfair contract terms should not apply to contract terms, which directly or indirectly reflect statutory
  , regulatory
  or
  public policy
  provisions of the Member States which comply with
  Union
  law. Similarly
  , contract
  terms
  should reflect the principles and provisions of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. Terms
  which reflect the principles or provisions of international conventions to which the
  Union
  or the Member States are party, particularly in the transport area, should not be subject to the unfairness test.

, regulatory

public policy

Union

, contract

should reflect the principles and provisions of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. Terms

Union

Amendment 45

Amendment 45

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 47

Recital 47

| (47) | Consumer contracts should
  be drafted in plain, intelligible language and be
  legible
  . Traders should be free to choose the font type or size in which the contract terms are drafted. The consumer should be given an opportunity to read the terms before concluding the contract. This opportunity could be given to the consumer by providing him with the terms on request (for on-premises contracts) or making those terms otherwise available (e.g. on the trader’s website in respect of distance contracts) or attaching standard terms to the order form (in respect of off-premises contracts). The trader should seek the consumer’s express consent to any payment in addition to the remuneration for the trader’s main contractual obligation. Inferring consent by using opt-out systems, such as pre-ticked boxes online should be prohibited. |
| --- | --- |

(47)

Consumer contracts should
  be drafted in plain, intelligible language and be
  legible
  . Traders should be free to choose the font type or size in which the contract terms are drafted. The consumer should be given an opportunity to read the terms before concluding the contract. This opportunity could be given to the consumer by providing him with the terms on request (for on-premises contracts) or making those terms otherwise available (e.g. on the trader’s website in respect of distance contracts) or attaching standard terms to the order form (in respect of off-premises contracts). The trader should seek the consumer’s express consent to any payment in addition to the remuneration for the trader’s main contractual obligation. Inferring consent by using opt-out systems, such as pre-ticked boxes online should be prohibited.

Consumer contracts should

legible

| (47) | All contract terms should be expressed in a clear and comprehensible manner. If a contract term is in writing, it should always
  be drafted in plain, intelligible language. Traders should be free to choose the font type or size in which the contract terms are drafted. The consumer should be given an opportunity to read the terms before concluding the contract. This opportunity could be given to the consumer by providing him with the terms on request (for on-premises contracts) or making those terms otherwise available (e.g. on the trader’s website in respect of distance contracts) or attaching standard terms to the order form (in respect of off-premises contracts). The trader should seek the consumer’s express consent to any payment in addition to the remuneration for the trader’s main contractual obligation. Inferring consent by using opt-out systems, such as pre-ticked boxes online should be prohibited. |
| --- | --- |

(47)

All contract terms should be expressed in a clear and comprehensible manner. If a contract term is in writing, it should always
  be drafted in plain, intelligible language. Traders should be free to choose the font type or size in which the contract terms are drafted. The consumer should be given an opportunity to read the terms before concluding the contract. This opportunity could be given to the consumer by providing him with the terms on request (for on-premises contracts) or making those terms otherwise available (e.g. on the trader’s website in respect of distance contracts) or attaching standard terms to the order form (in respect of off-premises contracts). The trader should seek the consumer’s express consent to any payment in addition to the remuneration for the trader’s main contractual obligation. Inferring consent by using opt-out systems, such as pre-ticked boxes online should be prohibited.

All contract terms should be expressed in a clear and comprehensible manner. If a contract term is in writing, it should always

Amendment 46

Amendment 46

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 47 a (new)

Recital 47 a (new)

| (47a) | Traders should be free to choose the way in which contract terms are communicated, for example the font type or size in which the contract terms are drafted. Member States should refrain from imposing any presentational requirements, except for those related to persons with disabilities or where the goods or services may present a particular risk to the health and safety of the consumer or a third person. Member States may also seek to impose additional requirements where, due to complexities inherent in contracts for such goods or services, there is a risk of consumer detriment including issues arising which relate to competition in that sector. This may apply, for example, to contracts relating to financial services, gas, electricity and water, telecoms and immovable property. However, this should not apply to formal national requirements concerning the conclusion of the contract or other formal requirements such as for instance the language of the terms, requirements on the content of the terms or the formulation of certain contract terms for specific sectors. This Directive should not harmonise language requirements applicable to consumer contracts. Therefore, Member States should be able to maintain or introduce in their national law linguistic requirements relating to the contractual terms. |
| --- | --- |

(47a)

(47a)

Traders should be free to choose the way in which contract terms are communicated, for example the font type or size in which the contract terms are drafted. Member States should refrain from imposing any presentational requirements, except for those related to persons with disabilities or where the goods or services may present a particular risk to the health and safety of the consumer or a third person. Member States may also seek to impose additional requirements where, due to complexities inherent in contracts for such goods or services, there is a risk of consumer detriment including issues arising which relate to competition in that sector. This may apply, for example, to contracts relating to financial services, gas, electricity and water, telecoms and immovable property. However, this should not apply to formal national requirements concerning the conclusion of the contract or other formal requirements such as for instance the language of the terms, requirements on the content of the terms or the formulation of certain contract terms for specific sectors. This Directive should not harmonise language requirements applicable to consumer contracts. Therefore, Member States should be able to maintain or introduce in their national law linguistic requirements relating to the contractual terms.

Traders should be free to choose the way in which contract terms are communicated, for example the font type or size in which the contract terms are drafted. Member States should refrain from imposing any presentational requirements, except for those related to persons with disabilities or where the goods or services may present a particular risk to the health and safety of the consumer or a third person. Member States may also seek to impose additional requirements where, due to complexities inherent in contracts for such goods or services, there is a risk of consumer detriment including issues arising which relate to competition in that sector. This may apply, for example, to contracts relating to financial services, gas, electricity and water, telecoms and immovable property. However, this should not apply to formal national requirements concerning the conclusion of the contract or other formal requirements such as for instance the language of the terms, requirements on the content of the terms or the formulation of certain contract terms for specific sectors. This Directive should not harmonise language requirements applicable to consumer contracts. Therefore, Member States should be able to maintain or introduce in their national law linguistic requirements relating to the contractual terms.

Amendment 47

Amendment 47

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 49

Recital 49

| (49) | For the purposes of this Directive, neither the fairness of terms which describe the main subject matter of the contract, nor the quality/price ratio of the goods or services supplied should be assessed unless these terms did not meet transparency requirements. The main subject matter of the contract and the price/quality ratio should nevertheless be taken into account in assessing the fairness of other terms. For example, in insurance contracts, the terms which clearly define or circumscribe the insured risk and the insurer’s liability should not be subject to such an assessment since these restrictions are taken into account in calculating the premium paid by the consumer. |
| --- | --- |

(49)

For the purposes of this Directive, neither the fairness of terms which describe the main subject matter of the contract, nor the quality/price ratio of the goods or services supplied should be assessed unless these terms did not meet transparency requirements. The main subject matter of the contract and the price/quality ratio should nevertheless be taken into account in assessing the fairness of other terms. For example, in insurance contracts, the terms which clearly define or circumscribe the insured risk and the insurer’s liability should not be subject to such an assessment since these restrictions are taken into account in calculating the premium paid by the consumer.

| (49) | For the purposes of this Directive, neither the fairness of terms which describe the main subject matter of the contract, nor the quality/price ratio of the goods or services supplied should be assessed unless these terms did not meet transparency requirements. The main subject matter of the contract and the price/quality ratio should nevertheless be taken into account in assessing the fairness of other terms. For example, in insurance contracts, the terms which clearly define or circumscribe the insured risk and the insurer’s liability should not be subject to such an assessment since these restrictions are taken into account in calculating the premium paid by the consumer.
  This exclusion does not apply to the remuneration foreseen for the trader from ancillary or contingent charges set out in the contract, including fees or charges for breaching any of the terms of the contract, which should be fully subject to the fairness test. |
| --- | --- |

(49)

For the purposes of this Directive, neither the fairness of terms which describe the main subject matter of the contract, nor the quality/price ratio of the goods or services supplied should be assessed unless these terms did not meet transparency requirements. The main subject matter of the contract and the price/quality ratio should nevertheless be taken into account in assessing the fairness of other terms. For example, in insurance contracts, the terms which clearly define or circumscribe the insured risk and the insurer’s liability should not be subject to such an assessment since these restrictions are taken into account in calculating the premium paid by the consumer.
  This exclusion does not apply to the remuneration foreseen for the trader from ancillary or contingent charges set out in the contract, including fees or charges for breaching any of the terms of the contract, which should be fully subject to the fairness test.

This exclusion does not apply to the remuneration foreseen for the trader from ancillary or contingent charges set out in the contract, including fees or charges for breaching any of the terms of the contract, which should be fully subject to the fairness test.

Amendment 48

Amendment 48

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 50

Recital 50

| (50) | In order to ensure legal certainty and improve the functioning of the internal market, the Directive should contain two lists of unfair terms. Annex II contains a list of terms which should in all circumstances be considered unfair. Annex III contains a list of terms which should be deemed unfair unless the trader proves otherwise.
  These same lists should apply in all Member States. |
| --- | --- |

(50)

In order to ensure legal certainty and improve the functioning of the internal market, the Directive should contain two lists of unfair terms. Annex II contains a list of terms which should in all circumstances be considered unfair. Annex III contains a list of terms which should be deemed unfair unless the trader proves otherwise.
  These same lists should apply in all Member States.

These same lists should apply in all Member States.

| (50) | In order to ensure legal certainty and improve the functioning of the internal market, the Directive should contain two
  non-exhaustive
  lists of unfair terms. Annex II contains a list of terms which should in all circumstances be considered unfair. Annex III contains a list of terms which should be deemed unfair unless the trader proves otherwise. |
| --- | --- |

(50)

In order to ensure legal certainty and improve the functioning of the internal market, the Directive should contain two
  non-exhaustive
  lists of unfair terms. Annex II contains a list of terms which should in all circumstances be considered unfair. Annex III contains a list of terms which should be deemed unfair unless the trader proves otherwise.

non-exhaustive

Amendment 49

Amendment 49

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 51

Recital 51

| (51) | The measures necessary for the implementation of this Directive should be adopted in accordance with Council Decision 1999/468/EC of 28 June 1999 laying down the procedures for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission. |
| --- | --- |

(51)

(51)

The measures necessary for the implementation of this Directive should be adopted in accordance with Council Decision 1999/468/EC of 28 June 1999 laying down the procedures for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission.

The measures necessary for the implementation of this Directive should be adopted in accordance with Council Decision 1999/468/EC of 28 June 1999 laying down the procedures for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission.

deleted

deleted

Amendment 50

Amendment 50

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 52

Recital 52

| (52) | In particular, the Commission should be empowered to amend Annexes II and III on contract terms to be considered or presumed unfair. Since those measures are of general scope and are designed to amend non-essential elements of this Directive, they must be adopted in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny provided for in Article 5a of Decision 1999/468/EC. |
| --- | --- |

(52)

(52)

In particular, the Commission should be empowered to amend Annexes II and III on contract terms to be considered or presumed unfair. Since those measures are of general scope and are designed to amend non-essential elements of this Directive, they must be adopted in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny provided for in Article 5a of Decision 1999/468/EC.

In particular, the Commission should be empowered to amend Annexes II and III on contract terms to be considered or presumed unfair. Since those measures are of general scope and are designed to amend non-essential elements of this Directive, they must be adopted in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny provided for in Article 5a of Decision 1999/468/EC.

deleted

deleted

Amendment 51

Amendment 51

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 53

Recital 53

| (53) | The Commission’s power to amend Annexes II and III should be used to ensure consistent implementation of the rules on unfair terms by supplementing those Annexes with contractual terms, which should be considered unfair in all circumstances or which should be deemed unfair unless the trader has proved otherwise. |
| --- | --- |

(53)

(53)

The Commission’s power to amend Annexes II and III should be used to ensure consistent implementation of the rules on unfair terms by supplementing those Annexes with contractual terms, which should be considered unfair in all circumstances or which should be deemed unfair unless the trader has proved otherwise.

The Commission’s power to amend Annexes II and III should be used to ensure consistent implementation of the rules on unfair terms by supplementing those Annexes with contractual terms, which should be considered unfair in all circumstances or which should be deemed unfair unless the trader has proved otherwise.

deleted

deleted

Amendment 52

Amendment 52

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 55 a (new)

Recital 55 a (new)

| (55a) | The Member States should ensure that their national authorities have the necessary level of cooperation with the European Consumer Centre (ECC) network, so as to react in cross-border cases, especially on pending requests at ECCs. |
| --- | --- |

(55a)

(55a)

The Member States should ensure that their national authorities have the necessary level of cooperation with the European Consumer Centre (ECC) network, so as to react in cross-border cases, especially on pending requests at ECCs.

The Member States should ensure that their national authorities have the necessary level of cooperation with the European Consumer Centre (ECC) network, so as to react in cross-border cases, especially on pending requests at ECCs.

Amendment 53

Amendment 53

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 60

Recital 60

| (60) | The
  European
  Commission will look into the most appropriate way to ensure that all consumers are made aware of their rights at the point of sale. |
| --- | --- |

(60)

The
  European
  Commission will look into the most appropriate way to ensure that all consumers are made aware of their rights at the point of sale.

European

| (60) | The Commission
  , following consultation with the Member States and stakeholders,
  will look into the most appropriate way to ensure that all consumers
  and traders
  are made aware of their rights at the point of sale.
  The Commission should avail itself especially of the means provided by information and communication technology tools and public media. |
| --- | --- |

(60)

The Commission
  , following consultation with the Member States and stakeholders,
  will look into the most appropriate way to ensure that all consumers
  and traders
  are made aware of their rights at the point of sale.
  The Commission should avail itself especially of the means provided by information and communication technology tools and public media.

, following consultation with the Member States and stakeholders,

and traders

The Commission should avail itself especially of the means provided by information and communication technology tools and public media.

Amendment 54

Amendment 54

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 61 a (new)

Recital 61 a (new)

| (61a) | Provision should be made for a mutual evaluation process in which, during the transposition period for this Directive, Member States would first have to screen their legislation in order to ascertain what stricter provisions, which are compliant with the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, are to be maintained or adopted in their national law in order to ensure a higher level of protection for the consumer. By the end of the transposition period for this Directive, Member States should draw up a report on the results of this screening. The Commission should submit each report to all other Member States and stakeholders. Member States and the European Parliament would then have six months in which to submit their observations on those reports. Not later than one year after the end of the transposition period for this Directive, and every three years thereafter, the Commission should draw up a report, accompanied where appropriate by legislative proposals. If necessary, the Commission could assist the Member States in devising a common method. |
| --- | --- |

(61a)

(61a)

Provision should be made for a mutual evaluation process in which, during the transposition period for this Directive, Member States would first have to screen their legislation in order to ascertain what stricter provisions, which are compliant with the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, are to be maintained or adopted in their national law in order to ensure a higher level of protection for the consumer. By the end of the transposition period for this Directive, Member States should draw up a report on the results of this screening. The Commission should submit each report to all other Member States and stakeholders. Member States and the European Parliament would then have six months in which to submit their observations on those reports. Not later than one year after the end of the transposition period for this Directive, and every three years thereafter, the Commission should draw up a report, accompanied where appropriate by legislative proposals. If necessary, the Commission could assist the Member States in devising a common method.

Provision should be made for a mutual evaluation process in which, during the transposition period for this Directive, Member States would first have to screen their legislation in order to ascertain what stricter provisions, which are compliant with the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, are to be maintained or adopted in their national law in order to ensure a higher level of protection for the consumer. By the end of the transposition period for this Directive, Member States should draw up a report on the results of this screening. The Commission should submit each report to all other Member States and stakeholders. Member States and the European Parliament would then have six months in which to submit their observations on those reports. Not later than one year after the end of the transposition period for this Directive, and every three years thereafter, the Commission should draw up a report, accompanied where appropriate by legislative proposals. If necessary, the Commission could assist the Member States in devising a common method.

Amendment 55

Amendment 55

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 61 b (new)

Recital 61 b (new)

| (61b) | To ensure a high level of consumer protection in all Member States, persons and organisations with a legitimate interest in consumer protection should be encouraged to notify the Member States and the Commission about their evaluations and issue non-binding recommendations so that they can be taken into account when this Directive is reviewed. |
| --- | --- |

(61b)

(61b)

To ensure a high level of consumer protection in all Member States, persons and organisations with a legitimate interest in consumer protection should be encouraged to notify the Member States and the Commission about their evaluations and issue non-binding recommendations so that they can be taken into account when this Directive is reviewed.

To ensure a high level of consumer protection in all Member States, persons and organisations with a legitimate interest in consumer protection should be encouraged to notify the Member States and the Commission about their evaluations and issue non-binding recommendations so that they can be taken into account when this Directive is reviewed.

Amendment 56

Amendment 56

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Recital 63

Recital 63

| (63) | It is appropriate to review this Directive if some barriers to the internal market were identified. The review could lead to a Commission proposal to amend this Directive, which may include amendments to other consumer protection legislation reflecting the Commission’s Consumer Policy Strategy commitment to review the acquis in order to achieve a high, common level of consumer protection. |
| --- | --- |

(63)

(63)

It is appropriate to review this Directive if some barriers to the internal market were identified. The review could lead to a Commission proposal to amend this Directive, which may include amendments to other consumer protection legislation reflecting the Commission’s Consumer Policy Strategy commitment to review the acquis in order to achieve a high, common level of consumer protection.

It is appropriate to review this Directive if some barriers to the internal market were identified. The review could lead to a Commission proposal to amend this Directive, which may include amendments to other consumer protection legislation reflecting the Commission’s Consumer Policy Strategy commitment to review the acquis in order to achieve a high, common level of consumer protection.

deleted

deleted

Amendment 57

Amendment 57

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 1

Article 1

The purpose of this Directive is to
  contribute to the proper functioning of the internal market and
  achieve a high level of consumer protection by approximating certain aspects of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States concerning contracts between consumers and traders.

contribute to the proper functioning of the internal market and

The purpose of this Directive is to achieve a high level of consumer protection and
  contribute to the proper functioning of the internal market
  by approximating certain aspects of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States concerning contracts between consumers and traders.

contribute to the proper functioning of the internal market

Amendment 59

Amendment 59

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 1

Article 2 – point 1

| (1) | ‘consumer’ means any natural person who, in contracts covered by this Directive, is acting for purposes which are outside his trade, business, craft or profession
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(1)

‘consumer’ means any natural person who, in contracts covered by this Directive, is acting for purposes which are outside his trade, business, craft or profession
  ;

;

| (1) | ‘consumer’ means any natural person who, in contracts covered by this Directive, is acting for purposes which are
  primarily
  outside his trade, business, craft or profession. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

‘consumer’ means any natural person who, in contracts covered by this Directive, is acting for purposes which are
  primarily
  outside his trade, business, craft or profession.

primarily

Member States may maintain or extend the application of this Directive to legal or natural persons which are not ‘consumers’ within the meaning of this Directive;

Member States may maintain or extend the application of this Directive to legal or natural persons which are not ‘consumers’ within the meaning of this Directive;

Amendment 60

Amendment 60

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 2

Article 2 – point 2

| (2) | ‘trader’ means any natural or legal person who,
  in contracts covered by this Directive
  , is acting for purposes relating to his trade, business, craft or profession and anyone acting
  in the name of or
  on behalf of a trader; |
| --- | --- |

(2)

‘trader’ means any natural or legal person who,
  in contracts covered by this Directive
  , is acting for purposes relating to his trade, business, craft or profession and anyone acting
  in the name of or
  on behalf of a trader;

in contracts covered by this Directive

in the name of or

| (2) | ‘trader’ means any natural or legal person who,
  irrespective of whether privately or publicly owned
  , is acting for purposes relating to his trade, business, craft or profession and anyone acting on behalf of a trader
  in relation to contracts covered by this Directive
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(2)

‘trader’ means any natural or legal person who,
  irrespective of whether privately or publicly owned
  , is acting for purposes relating to his trade, business, craft or profession and anyone acting on behalf of a trader
  in relation to contracts covered by this Directive
  ;

irrespective of whether privately or publicly owned

in relation to contracts covered by this Directive

Amendment 61

Amendment 61

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 2 a (new)

Article 2 – point 2 a (new)

| (2a) | ‘goods’ means any tangible movable item, and any intangible item usable in a manner which can be equated with physical possession, with the exception of goods sold by way of execution or otherwise by authority of law. Water, gas and electricity shall be considered as ‘goods’ within the meaning of this Directive where they are put up for sale in a limited volume or set quantity; |
| --- | --- |

(2a)

(2a)

‘goods’ means any tangible movable item, and any intangible item usable in a manner which can be equated with physical possession, with the exception of goods sold by way of execution or otherwise by authority of law. Water, gas and electricity shall be considered as ‘goods’ within the meaning of this Directive where they are put up for sale in a limited volume or set quantity;

‘goods’ means any tangible movable item, and any intangible item usable in a manner which can be equated with physical possession, with the exception of goods sold by way of execution or otherwise by authority of law. Water, gas and electricity shall be considered as ‘goods’ within the meaning of this Directive where they are put up for sale in a limited volume or set quantity;

Amendment 62

Amendment 62

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 2 b (new)

Article 2 – point 2 b (new)

| (2b) | ‘good made to the consumer’s specifications’ means any non-prefabricated good made on the basis of an individual choice or decision by the consumer; |
| --- | --- |

(2b)

(2b)

‘good made to the consumer’s specifications’ means any non-prefabricated good made on the basis of an individual choice or decision by the consumer;

‘good made to the consumer’s specifications’ means any non-prefabricated good made on the basis of an individual choice or decision by the consumer;

Amendment 63

Amendment 63

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 3

Article 2 – point 3

| (3) | ‘sales contract’ means any contract for the sale of goods by the trader to the consumer including any mixed-purpose contract having as its object both goods and services; |
| --- | --- |

(3)

(3)

‘sales contract’ means any contract for the sale of goods by the trader to the consumer including any mixed-purpose contract having as its object both goods and services;

‘sales contract’ means any contract for the sale of goods by the trader to the consumer including any mixed-purpose contract having as its object both goods and services;

deleted

deleted

Amendment 64

Amendment 64

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 4

Article 2 – point 4

| (4) | ‘goods’ means any tangible movable item, with the exception of:










  (a) | goods sold by way of execution or otherwise by authority of law, |
| --- | --- | --- |

(4)

(4)

‘goods’ means any tangible movable item, with the exception of:

‘goods’ means any tangible movable item, with the exception of:

(a)

(a)

goods sold by way of execution or otherwise by authority of law,

goods sold by way of execution or otherwise by authority of law,

| (b) | water and gas where they are not put up for sale in a limited volume or set quantity, |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

water and gas where they are not put up for sale in a limited volume or set quantity,

water and gas where they are not put up for sale in a limited volume or set quantity,

| (c) | electricity; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

(c)

electricity;

electricity;

deleted

deleted

Amendment 65

Amendment 65

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 5

Article 2 – point 5

| (5) | ‘service
  contract
  ’ means any
  contract
  other
  than a sales contract whereby a
  service
  is
  provided by the trader to the consumer; |
| --- | --- |

(5)

‘service
  contract
  ’ means any
  contract
  other
  than a sales contract whereby a
  service
  is
  provided by the trader to the consumer;

contract

contract

than a sales contract whereby a

is

| (5) | ‘service’ means any
  work or
  other service
  of any kind
  provided by the trader to the consumer
  for remuneration
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(5)

‘service’ means any
  work or
  other service
  of any kind
  provided by the trader to the consumer
  for remuneration
  ;

work or

of any kind

for remuneration

Amendment 66

Amendment 66

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 5 a (new)

Article 2 – point 5 a (new)

| (
  5a
  ) | ‘sales contract’ means any contract whereby a trader grants ownership of goods to a consumer in accordance with the applicable national law, or undertakes to grant such ownership, and whereby the consumer undertakes to pay the agreed price.



  Contracts for the supply of goods to be manufactured or produced shall also be defined as sales contracts for the purposes of this Directive |
| --- | --- |

(
  5a
  )

5a

‘sales contract’ means any contract whereby a trader grants ownership of goods to a consumer in accordance with the applicable national law, or undertakes to grant such ownership, and whereby the consumer undertakes to pay the agreed price.

‘sales contract’ means any contract whereby a trader grants ownership of goods to a consumer in accordance with the applicable national law, or undertakes to grant such ownership, and whereby the consumer undertakes to pay the agreed price.

Contracts for the supply of goods to be manufactured or produced shall also be defined as sales contracts for the purposes of this Directive

Amendment 67

Amendment 67

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 5 b (new)

Article 2 – point 5 b (new)

| (5b) | ‘mixed-purpose contract’ means any contract that includes both aspects relating to the provision of services and aspects relating to the supply of goods; |
| --- | --- |

(5b)

(5b)

‘mixed-purpose contract’ means any contract that includes both aspects relating to the provision of services and aspects relating to the supply of goods;

‘mixed-purpose contract’ means any contract that includes both aspects relating to the provision of services and aspects relating to the supply of goods;

Amendment 68

Amendment 68

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 6

Article 2 – point 6

| (6) | ‘distance contract’ means any
  sales or service
  contract
  where the
  trader
  , for the conclusion of the contract, makes
  exclusive use of one or more means of distance communication; |
| --- | --- |

(6)

‘distance contract’ means any
  sales or service
  contract
  where the
  trader
  , for the conclusion of the contract, makes
  exclusive use of one or more means of distance communication;

sales or service

where the

, for the conclusion of the contract, makes

| (6) | ‘distance contract’ means any contract
  for the supply of a good or the provision of a service concluded between a
  trader
  and a consumer under an organised distance sales or service-provision scheme where the trader and the consumer are not simultaneously physically present for the conclusion of the contract, but, rather, make
  exclusive use of one or more means of distance communication; |
| --- | --- |

(6)

‘distance contract’ means any contract
  for the supply of a good or the provision of a service concluded between a
  trader
  and a consumer under an organised distance sales or service-provision scheme where the trader and the consumer are not simultaneously physically present for the conclusion of the contract, but, rather, make
  exclusive use of one or more means of distance communication;

for the supply of a good or the provision of a service concluded between a

and a consumer under an organised distance sales or service-provision scheme where the trader and the consumer are not simultaneously physically present for the conclusion of the contract, but, rather, make

Amendment 69

Amendment 69

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 7

Article 2 – point 7

| (7) | ‘means of distance communication’ means any means which, without the simultaneous physical presence of the trader and the consumer, may be used for the conclusion of a contract between those parties; |
| --- | --- |

(7)

(7)

‘means of distance communication’ means any means which, without the simultaneous physical presence of the trader and the consumer, may be used for the conclusion of a contract between those parties;

‘means of distance communication’ means any means which, without the simultaneous physical presence of the trader and the consumer, may be used for the conclusion of a contract between those parties;

deleted

deleted

Amendment 70

Amendment 70

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 8

Article 2 – point 8

| (8) | ‘off-premises contract’ means: |
| --- | --- |

(8)

‘off-premises contract’ means:

| (8) | ‘off-premises contract’ means
  any contract between a trader and a consumer for the supply of a good or the provision of a service
  : |
| --- | --- |

(8)

‘off-premises contract’ means
  any contract between a trader and a consumer for the supply of a good or the provision of a service
  :

any contract between a trader and a consumer for the supply of a good or the provision of a service

| (a) | any sales or service contract
  concluded away from business premises with the simultaneous physical presence of the trader and the consumer
  or any sales or service contract for which an offer was made by the consumer in the same circumstances
  , or |
| --- | --- |

(a)

any sales or service contract
  concluded away from business premises with the simultaneous physical presence of the trader and the consumer
  or any sales or service contract for which an offer was made by the consumer in the same circumstances
  , or

any sales or service contract

or any sales or service contract for which an offer was made by the consumer in the same circumstances

| (a) | which is
  concluded away from business premises with the simultaneous physical presence of the trader and the consumer, or |
| --- | --- |

(a)

which is
  concluded away from business premises with the simultaneous physical presence of the trader and the consumer, or

which is

| (aa) | for which an offer was made by the consumer with the simultaneous physical presence of the trader and the consumer away from business premises, or |
| --- | --- |

(aa)

(aa)

for which an offer was made by the consumer with the simultaneous physical presence of the trader and the consumer away from business premises, or

for which an offer was made by the consumer with the simultaneous physical presence of the trader and the consumer away from business premises, or

| (b) | any sales or service contract concluded on business premises but negotiated
  away from business premises, with the simultaneous physical presence of the trader and the consumer. |
| --- | --- |

(b)

any sales or service contract concluded on business premises but negotiated
  away from business premises, with the simultaneous physical presence of the trader and the consumer.

any sales or service contract concluded on business premises but negotiated

| (b) | whose main components have been determined in the course of an excursion, a leisure event or a sales demonstration organised by the trader
  away from business premises, with the simultaneous physical presence of the trader and the consumer,
  the aim of such excursion, leisure event or demonstration being to conclude a contract subsequently on business premises
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

whose main components have been determined in the course of an excursion, a leisure event or a sales demonstration organised by the trader
  away from business premises, with the simultaneous physical presence of the trader and the consumer,
  the aim of such excursion, leisure event or demonstration being to conclude a contract subsequently on business premises
  ;

whose main components have been determined in the course of an excursion, a leisure event or a sales demonstration organised by the trader

the aim of such excursion, leisure event or demonstration being to conclude a contract subsequently on business premises

Amendment 71

Amendment 71

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 9 – point b

Article 2 – point 9 – point b

| (b) | market stalls
  and fair stands
  where the trader carries on his activity on a regular or temporary basis; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

market stalls
  and fair stands
  where the trader carries on his activity on a regular or temporary basis;

and fair stands

| (b) | market stalls where the trader carries on his activity on a regular or temporary basis; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

market stalls where the trader carries on his activity on a regular or temporary basis;

Amendment 72

Amendment 72

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 12

Article 2 – point 12

| (12) | ‘product’ means any good or service including immoveable property, rights and obligations; |
| --- | --- |

(12)

(12)

‘product’ means any good or service including immoveable property, rights and obligations;

‘product’ means any good or service including immoveable property, rights and obligations;

deleted

deleted

Amendment 73

Amendment 73

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 14

Article 2 – point 14

| (14) | ‘professional diligence’ means the standard of special skill and care which a trader may reasonably be expected to exercise towards consumers, commensurate with honest market practice and/or the general principle of good faith in the trader’s field of activity; |
| --- | --- |

(14)

(14)

‘professional diligence’ means the standard of special skill and care which a trader may reasonably be expected to exercise towards consumers, commensurate with honest market practice and/or the general principle of good faith in the trader’s field of activity;

‘professional diligence’ means the standard of special skill and care which a trader may reasonably be expected to exercise towards consumers, commensurate with honest market practice and/or the general principle of good faith in the trader’s field of activity;

deleted

deleted

Amendment 74

Amendment 74

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 15

Article 2 – point 15

| (15) | ‘auction’ means a method of sale where goods or services are offered by the trader through a competitive bidding procedure which may include the use of means of distance communication and where the highest bidder is bound to purchase the goods or the services. A transaction concluded on the basis of a fixed-price offer, despite the option given to the consumer to conclude it through a bidding procedure is not an auction; |
| --- | --- |

(15)

(15)

‘auction’ means a method of sale where goods or services are offered by the trader through a competitive bidding procedure which may include the use of means of distance communication and where the highest bidder is bound to purchase the goods or the services. A transaction concluded on the basis of a fixed-price offer, despite the option given to the consumer to conclude it through a bidding procedure is not an auction;

‘auction’ means a method of sale where goods or services are offered by the trader through a competitive bidding procedure which may include the use of means of distance communication and where the highest bidder is bound to purchase the goods or the services. A transaction concluded on the basis of a fixed-price offer, despite the option given to the consumer to conclude it through a bidding procedure is not an auction;

deleted

deleted

Amendment 75

Amendment 75

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 16

Article 2 – point 16

| (16) | ‘public auction’ means a method of sale where
  goods are
  offered by the trader to consumers,
  who attend or are given the possibility to attend the auction in person,
  through a competitive bidding procedure run by
  an auctioneer and where the highest bidder is bound to purchase the goods
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(16)

‘public auction’ means a method of sale where
  goods are
  offered by the trader to consumers,
  who attend or are given the possibility to attend the auction in person,
  through a competitive bidding procedure run by
  an auctioneer and where the highest bidder is bound to purchase the goods
  ;

goods are

who attend or are given the possibility to attend the auction in person,

an auctioneer and where the highest bidder is bound to purchase the goods

| (16) | ‘public auction’ means a method of sale where
  a good or a service is
  offered by the trader to consumers,
  during an event which is physically accessible to the public,
  through a
  transparent,
  competitive bidding procedure run by
  a third party (the auctioneer), who, for pecuniary consideration, acts as the trader’s agent. In an ascending price auction, the good or service is sold to the consumer or a person acting on his behalf making the highest bid. In a descending price auction, the good or service is sold to the consumer or a person acting on his behalf who is first to agree immediately to purchase the good or service for the asking price; |
| --- | --- |

(16)

‘public auction’ means a method of sale where
  a good or a service is
  offered by the trader to consumers,
  during an event which is physically accessible to the public,
  through a
  transparent,
  competitive bidding procedure run by
  a third party (the auctioneer), who, for pecuniary consideration, acts as the trader’s agent. In an ascending price auction, the good or service is sold to the consumer or a person acting on his behalf making the highest bid. In a descending price auction, the good or service is sold to the consumer or a person acting on his behalf who is first to agree immediately to purchase the good or service for the asking price;

a good or a service is

during an event which is physically accessible to the public,

transparent,

a third party (the auctioneer), who, for pecuniary consideration, acts as the trader’s agent. In an ascending price auction, the good or service is sold to the consumer or a person acting on his behalf making the highest bid. In a descending price auction, the good or service is sold to the consumer or a person acting on his behalf who is first to agree immediately to purchase the good or service for the asking price;

Amendment 76

Amendment 76

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 17

Article 2 – point 17

| (17) | ‘producer’ means the manufacturer of goods, the importer of goods into the territory of the
  Community
  or any person purporting to be a producer by placing his name, trade mark or other distinctive sign on the goods; |
| --- | --- |

(17)

‘producer’ means the manufacturer of goods, the importer of goods into the territory of the
  Community
  or any person purporting to be a producer by placing his name, trade mark or other distinctive sign on the goods;

Community

| (17) | ‘producer’ means the manufacturer of goods, the importer of goods into the territory of the
  Union
  or any person purporting to be a producer by placing his name, trade mark or other distinctive sign on the goods; |
| --- | --- |

(17)

‘producer’ means the manufacturer of goods, the importer of goods into the territory of the
  Union
  or any person purporting to be a producer by placing his name, trade mark or other distinctive sign on the goods;

Union

Amendment 77

Amendment 77

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 18

Article 2 – point 18

| (18) | ‘commercial guarantee’ means any undertaking by the trader or producer (the ‘guarantor’) to the consumer to reimburse the price paid or to replace, repair or service goods in any way if they do not meet the specifications set out in the guarantee statement or in the relevant advertising available at the time of, or before the conclusion of the contract; |
| --- | --- |

(18)

‘commercial guarantee’ means any undertaking by the trader or producer (the ‘guarantor’) to the consumer to reimburse the price paid or to replace, repair or service goods in any way if they do not meet the specifications set out in the guarantee statement or in the relevant advertising available at the time of, or before the conclusion of the contract;

| (18) | ‘commercial guarantee’ means any undertaking by the trader or producer (the ‘guarantor’) to the consumer
  , in addition to his legal obligations relating to the guarantee of conformity,
  to reimburse the price paid or to replace, repair or service goods in any way if they do not meet the specifications
  or any other requirement not related to conformity
  set out in the guarantee statement or in the relevant advertising available at the time of, or before the conclusion of the contract; |
| --- | --- |

(18)

‘commercial guarantee’ means any undertaking by the trader or producer (the ‘guarantor’) to the consumer
  , in addition to his legal obligations relating to the guarantee of conformity,
  to reimburse the price paid or to replace, repair or service goods in any way if they do not meet the specifications
  or any other requirement not related to conformity
  set out in the guarantee statement or in the relevant advertising available at the time of, or before the conclusion of the contract;

, in addition to his legal obligations relating to the guarantee of conformity,

or any other requirement not related to conformity

Amendment 78

Amendment 78

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 19

Article 2 – point 19

| (19) | ‘intermediary’ means a trader who concludes the contract in the name of or on behalf of the consumer; |
| --- | --- |

(19)

(19)

‘intermediary’ means a trader who concludes the contract in the name of or on behalf of the consumer;

‘intermediary’ means a trader who concludes the contract in the name of or on behalf of the consumer;

deleted

deleted

Amendment 79

Amendment 79

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 2 – point 20

Article 2 – point 20

| (20) | ‘
  ancillary
  contract’ means
  a
  contract
  by which the consumer acquires goods or services related to a distance contract or an off-premises contract and these goods or services are provided by the trader or a third party on the basis of an arrangement between that third party and the trader. |
| --- | --- |

(20)

‘
  ancillary
  contract’ means
  a
  contract
  by which the consumer acquires goods or services related to a distance contract or an off-premises contract and these goods or services are provided by the trader or a third party on the basis of an arrangement between that third party and the trader.

ancillary

a

by which the consumer acquires goods or services related to a distance contract or an off-premises contract and these goods or services are provided by the trader or a third party on the basis of an arrangement between that third party and the trader.

| (20) | ‘
  linked
  contract’ means
  any
  contract
  for the supply of a good or the provision of a service: |
| --- | --- |

(20)

‘
  linked
  contract’ means
  any
  contract
  for the supply of a good or the provision of a service:

linked

any

for the supply of a good or the provision of a service:

| (a) | which forms, from an objective point of view, a commercial unit with a distance contract or an off-premises contract; and |
| --- | --- |

(a)

(a)

which forms, from an objective point of view, a commercial unit with a distance contract or an off-premises contract; and

which forms, from an objective point of view, a commercial unit with a distance contract or an off-premises contract; and

| (b) | where the goods are supplied or the services are provided by the trader or a third party on the basis of an arrangement between that third party and the trader. |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

where the goods are supplied or the services are provided by the trader or a third party on the basis of an arrangement between that third party and the trader.

where the goods are supplied or the services are provided by the trader or a third party on the basis of an arrangement between that third party and the trader.

A commercial unit shall be deemed to exist where the goods or services provided under the linked contract are related to the performance of the distance contract or of the off-premises contract, as the case may be, or to the use of the goods supplied or the services provided under such distance or off-premises contract.

A commercial unit shall be deemed to exist where the goods or services provided under the linked contract are related to the performance of the distance contract or of the off-premises contract, as the case may be, or to the use of the goods supplied or the services provided under such distance or off-premises contract.

Amendments 80 and 232

Amendments 80 and 232

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 3

Article 3

1.   This Directive shall apply, under the conditions and to the extent set out in its provisions, to
  sales and service
  contracts concluded between the trader and the consumer.

sales and service

1.   This Directive shall apply, under the conditions and to the extent set out in its provisions, to contracts concluded between the trader and the consumer
  for the supply of a good or the provision of a service and to mixed-purpose contracts
  .

for the supply of a good or the provision of a service and to mixed-purpose contracts

2.   This Directive shall
  only apply to financial services as regards certain off-premises contracts as provided for by Articles 8 to 20, unfair contract terms as provided for by Articles 30 to 39 and general provisions as provided for by Articles 40 to 46, read in conjunction with Article 4 on full harmonisation.

only apply to financial services as regards certain off-premises contracts as provided for by Articles 8 to 20, unfair contract terms as provided for by Articles 30 to 39 and general provisions as provided for by Articles 40 to 46, read in conjunction with Article 4 on full harmonisation.

2.   This Directive shall
  be without prejudice to sector-specific Union legislation governing contracts concluded between a trader and a consumer.

be without prejudice to sector-specific Union legislation governing contracts concluded between a trader and a consumer.

2a.
     
  This Directive shall not apply to contracts relating to:

2a.

This Directive shall not apply to contracts relating to:

| (a) | social services; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

(a)

social services;

social services;

| (b) | healthcare, that is to say health services provided by health professionals to patients to assess, maintain or restore their health; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

healthcare, that is to say health services provided by health professionals to patients to assess, maintain or restore their health;

healthcare, that is to say health services provided by health professionals to patients to assess, maintain or restore their health;

| (c) | gambling, which involves wagering a stake with pecuniary value in games of chance, including lotteries, casino games and betting transactions. |
| --- | --- |

(c)

(c)

gambling, which involves wagering a stake with pecuniary value in games of chance, including lotteries, casino games and betting transactions.

gambling, which involves wagering a stake with pecuniary value in games of chance, including lotteries, casino games and betting transactions.

2b.
     
  Articles 5 to 19 and Article 23a shall not apply to contracts:

2b.

Articles 5 to 19 and Article 23a shall not apply to contracts:

| (a) | relating to financial services; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

(a)

relating to financial services;

relating to financial services;

| (b) | falling within the scope of Directive 2002/65/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 September 2002 concerning the distance marketing of consumer financial services (2). |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

falling within the scope of Directive 2002/65/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 September 2002 concerning the distance marketing of consumer financial services (2).

falling within the scope of Directive 2002/65/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 September 2002 concerning the distance marketing of consumer financial services (2

3.   
  Only Articles 30 to 39 on consumer rights concerning unfair contract terms, read in conjunction with Article 4 on full harmonisation, shall apply to contracts which fall within the scope of Directive 94/47/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and of Council Directive 90/314/EEC
  .

Only Articles 30 to 39 on consumer rights concerning unfair contract terms, read in conjunction with Article 4 on full harmonisation, shall apply to contracts which fall within the scope of Directive 94/47/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and of Council Directive 90/314/EEC

3.   
  Subject to paragraphs 4 to 4c of this Article, Articles 9 to 19 shall apply to distance and off-premises contracts
  .

Subject to paragraphs 4 to 4c of this Article, Articles 9 to 19 shall apply to distance and off-premises contracts

4.   Articles
  5, 7, 9 and 11
  shall
  be without prejudice to the provisions concerning information requirements contained in Directive 2006/123/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and Directive 2000/31/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council.

5, 7, 9 and 11

be without prejudice to the provisions concerning information requirements contained in Directive 2006/123/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and Directive 2000/31/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council.

4.   Articles
  9 to 19
  shall
  not apply to distance and off-premises contracts:

9 to 19

not apply to distance and off-premises contracts:

| (a) | relating to the formation, acquisition or conveyance of rights in immovable property or guarantees in immovable property, or relating to the construction or major modification of a building or the renting of a building or an apartment; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

(a)

relating to the formation, acquisition or conveyance of rights in immovable property or guarantees in immovable property, or relating to the construction or major modification of a building or the renting of a building or an apartment;

relating to the formation, acquisition or conveyance of rights in immovable property or guarantees in immovable property, or relating to the construction or major modification of a building or the renting of a building or an apartment;

| (b) | falling within the scope of Council Directive 90/314/EEC of 13 June 1990 on package travel, package holidays and package tours (3) or Directive 2008/122/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 January 2009 on the protection of consumers in respect of certain aspects of timeshare, long-term holiday products, resale and exchange contracts (4); |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

falling within the scope of Council Directive 90/314/EEC of 13 June 1990 on package travel, package holidays and package tours (3) or Directive 2008/122/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 January 2009 on the protection of consumers in respect of certain aspects of timeshare, long-term holiday products, resale and exchange contracts (4);

falling within the scope of Council Directive 90/314/EEC of 13 June 1990 on package travel, package holidays and package tours (3

4

| (c) | which, in accordance with the provisions of the Member States, are established by a public office-holder who has a statutory obligation to be independent and impartial and must ensure, by providing comprehensive legal information, that the consumer only concludes the contract on the basis of careful consideration and with knowledge of its legal scope. |
| --- | --- |

(c)

(c)

which, in accordance with the provisions of the Member States, are established by a public office-holder who has a statutory obligation to be independent and impartial and must ensure, by providing comprehensive legal information, that the consumer only concludes the contract on the basis of careful consideration and with knowledge of its legal scope.

which, in accordance with the provisions of the Member States, are established by a public office-holder who has a statutory obligation to be independent and impartial and must ensure, by providing comprehensive legal information, that the consumer only concludes the contract on the basis of careful consideration and with knowledge of its legal scope.

4a.
     
  Articles 9 to 19 shall not apply to off-premises contracts for which the trader and the consumer immediately perform their contractual obligations and the payment to be made by the consumer does not exceed EUR 40, if such contracts, due to their nature, are usually concluded away from business premises. Member States may define a lower value in their national legislation.

4a.

Articles 9 to 19 shall not apply to off-premises contracts for which the trader and the consumer immediately perform their contractual obligations and the payment to be made by the consumer does not exceed EUR 40, if such contracts, due to their nature, are usually concluded away from business premises. Member States may define a lower value in their national legislation.

4b.
     
  Articles 9 to 19 shall not apply to distance contracts:

4b.

Articles 9 to 19 shall not apply to distance contracts:

| (a) | concluded by means of automatic vending machines or automated commercial premises; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

(a)

concluded by means of automatic vending machines or automated commercial premises;

concluded by means of automatic vending machines or automated commercial premises;

| (b) | concluded with telecommunications operators through public payphones for the use thereof, or relating to single telephone, Internet or fax connections established by the consumer. |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

concluded with telecommunications operators through public payphones for the use thereof, or relating to single telephone, Internet or fax connections established by the consumer.

concluded with telecommunications operators through public payphones for the use thereof, or relating to single telephone, Internet or fax connections established by the consumer.

4c.
     
  Article 11(1b) and Articles 12 to 19 shall not apply to distance contracts for the provision of accommodation, transport, motor vehicle rental services, catering or leisure services as regards contracts providing for a specific date or period of performance.

4c.

Article 11(1b) and Articles 12 to 19 shall not apply to distance contracts for the provision of accommodation, transport, motor vehicle rental services, catering or leisure services as regards contracts providing for a specific date or period of performance.

4d.
     
  Subject to paragraphs 4e, 4f and 4g of this Article, Articles 22 to 29 shall apply to sales contracts. Without prejudice to Article 24(5), where the contract is a mixed-purpose contract, Articles 22 to 29 shall only apply to the goods.

4d.

Subject to paragraphs 4e, 4f and 4g of this Article, Articles 22 to 29 shall apply to sales contracts. Without prejudice to Article 24(5), where the contract is a mixed-purpose contract, Articles 22 to 29 shall only apply to the goods.

4e.
     
  Articles 22a and 23a shall also apply to service contracts and mixed-purpose contracts.

4e.

Articles 22a and 23a shall also apply to service contracts and mixed-purpose contracts.

4f.
     
  Articles 22 to 29 shall not apply to:

4f.

Articles 22 to 29 shall not apply to:

| (a) | electricity; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

(a)

electricity;

electricity;

| (b) | water and gas, where they are not put up for sale in a limited volume or set quantity. |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

water and gas, where they are not put up for sale in a limited volume or set quantity.

water and gas, where they are not put up for sale in a limited volume or set quantity.

4g.
     
  Articles 22 to 29 shall not apply to the sale of second-hand goods at public auctions.

4g.

Articles 22 to 29 shall not apply to the sale of second-hand goods at public auctions.

Amendment 81

Amendment 81

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 4 – title

Article 4 – title

Full
  harmonisation

Full

harmonisation

Degree of
  harmonisation

Degree of

harmonisation

Amendment 82

Amendment 82

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 4

Article 4

Member States may
  not
  maintain or introduce, in their national law, provisions
  diverging from those laid down in this Directive, including more or less stringent provisions
  to ensure
  a different level
  of consumer protection.

not

diverging from those laid down in this Directive, including more or less stringent provisions

a different level

1.
     
  Except where provided for in paragraphs 1a and 1b,
  Member States may maintain or introduce, in their national law,
  more stringent
  provisions
  , compatible with the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, in order
  to ensure
  a higher level
  of consumer protection
  , under the conditions and to the extent specified in Article 5, Article 9(5) and 9(6), Articles 22 to 29, Article 31(4) and Articles 34 and 35.

1.

Except where provided for in paragraphs 1a and 1b,

more stringent

, compatible with the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, in order

a higher level

, under the conditions and to the extent specified in Article 5, Article 9(5) and 9(6), Articles 22 to 29, Article 31(4) and Articles 34 and 35.

2.
     
  Member States may maintain in force, in their national law, more stringent provisions, which are compatible with the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, in order to ensure a higher level of consumer protection, as laid down in Article 12(4) and Article 13(2).

2.

Member States may maintain in force, in their national law, more stringent provisions, which are compatible with the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, in order to ensure a higher level of consumer protection, as laid down in Article 12(4) and Article 13(2).

3.
     
  Member States may not maintain or introduce, in their national law, provisions diverging from those laid down in Article 2, Article 9(1) to (4) and Article 9(8), Articles 10 and 11, Article 12(1) to (3), Article 13(1), Articles 14 to 19, Articles 30 to 33 and Article 36 including more stringent provisions to ensure a different level of consumer protection.

3.

Member States may not maintain or introduce, in their national law, provisions diverging from those laid down in Article 2, Article 9(1) to (4) and Article 9(8), Articles 10 and 11, Article 12(1) to (3), Article 13(1), Articles 14 to 19, Articles 30 to 33 and Article 36 including more stringent provisions to ensure a different level of consumer protection.

Amendment 83

Amendment 83

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 4 a (new)

Article 4 a (new)

Article 4a

Article 4a

Periods, dates and time limits

Periods, dates and time limits

Council Regulation (EEC, Euratom) No 1182/71 of 3 June 1971 determining the rules applicable to periods, dates and time limits (5) shall apply to the calculation of the periods, dates and time limits contained in this Directive.

Council Regulation (EEC, Euratom) No 1182/71 of 3 June 1971 determining the rules applicable to periods, dates and time limits (5

Amendment 84

Amendment 84

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Chapter II – title

Chapter II – title

Amendment 85

Amendment 85

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 5 – title

Article 5 – title

General
  information requirements

General

information requirements

Information requirements
  for on-premises contracts

Information requirements

for on-premises contracts

Amendment 86

Amendment 86

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

1.   
  Prior to the conclusion of any sales or service
  contract, the trader shall provide the consumer with the following information, if not already apparent from the context:

Prior to the conclusion of any sales or service

1.   
  On concluding an on-premises
  contract, the trader shall provide the consumer with the following information
  in a clear and intelligible manner
  , if not already apparent from the context:

On concluding an on-premises

in a clear and intelligible manner

Amendment 87

Amendment 87

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point a

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point a

| (a) | the main characteristics of the
  product
  , to an extent appropriate to the
  medium and the product
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

the main characteristics of the
  product
  , to an extent appropriate to the
  medium and the product
  ;

product

medium and the product

| (a) | the main characteristics of the
  good or service
  , to an extent appropriate to the
  good or service
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

the main characteristics of the
  good or service
  , to an extent appropriate to the
  good or service
  ;

good or service

good or service

Amendment 88

Amendment 88

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point b

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point b

| (b) | the geographical address and
  the identity of the trader, such as his trading name
  and, where applicable, the geographical address and the identity of the trader on whose behalf he is acting
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

the geographical address and
  the identity of the trader, such as his trading name
  and, where applicable, the geographical address and the identity of the trader on whose behalf he is acting
  ;

the geographical address and

and, where applicable, the geographical address and the identity of the trader on whose behalf he is acting

| (b) | the identity of the trader, such as his trading name; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

the identity of the trader, such as his trading name;

Amendment 89

Amendment 89

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)

| (ba) | the trader’s business address, telephone, fax number and e-mail address, where available, to enable the consumer to contact the trader quickly and to communicate with the trader efficiently; |
| --- | --- |

(ba)

(ba)

the trader’s business address, telephone, fax number and e-mail address, where available, to enable the consumer to contact the trader quickly and to communicate with the trader efficiently;

the trader’s business address, telephone, fax number and e-mail address, where available, to enable the consumer to contact the trader quickly and to communicate with the trader efficiently;

Amendment 90

Amendment 90

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point c

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point c

| (c) | the price inclusive of taxes, or where the nature of the
  product
  means that the price cannot reasonably be calculated in advance, the manner in which the price is calculated, as well as, where appropriate, all additional freight, delivery or postal charges or, where these charges cannot reasonably be calculated in advance, the fact that such additional charges may be payable; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

the price inclusive of taxes, or where the nature of the
  product
  means that the price cannot reasonably be calculated in advance, the manner in which the price is calculated, as well as, where appropriate, all additional freight, delivery or postal charges or, where these charges cannot reasonably be calculated in advance, the fact that such additional charges may be payable;

product

| (c) | the
  total
  price inclusive of taxes, or where the nature of the
  good or service
  means that the price cannot reasonably be calculated in advance, the manner in which the price is calculated, as well as, where appropriate, all additional freight, delivery or postal charges
  and any other cost
  or, where these charges cannot reasonably be calculated in advance, the fact that such additional charges may be payable.
  In the case of an contract of indeterminate duration, the total price shall mean the total monthly costs
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

the
  total
  price inclusive of taxes, or where the nature of the
  good or service
  means that the price cannot reasonably be calculated in advance, the manner in which the price is calculated, as well as, where appropriate, all additional freight, delivery or postal charges
  and any other cost
  or, where these charges cannot reasonably be calculated in advance, the fact that such additional charges may be payable.
  In the case of an contract of indeterminate duration, the total price shall mean the total monthly costs
  ;

total

good or service

and any other cost

In the case of an contract of indeterminate duration, the total price shall mean the total monthly costs

Amendment 91

Amendment 91

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point d

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point d

| (d) | the arrangements for payment, delivery, performance and the complaint handling policy
  , if they depart from the requirements of professional diligence
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

the arrangements for payment, delivery, performance and the complaint handling policy
  , if they depart from the requirements of professional diligence
  ;

, if they depart from the requirements of professional diligence

| (d) | where appropriate,
  the arrangements for payment, delivery, performance
  , the date by which the trader undertakes to deliver the goods or to provide the service
  and the
  trader’s
  complaint handling policy; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

where appropriate,
  the arrangements for payment, delivery, performance
  , the date by which the trader undertakes to deliver the goods or to provide the service
  and the
  trader’s
  complaint handling policy;

where appropriate,

, the date by which the trader undertakes to deliver the goods or to provide the service

trader’s

Amendment 92

Amendment 92

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point f

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point f

| (f) | the existence and the conditions of after-sales services and commercial guarantees, where applicable; |
| --- | --- |

(f)

the existence and the conditions of after-sales services and commercial guarantees, where applicable;

| (f) | in addition to a reminder of the existence of a legal guarantee of conformity for goods,
  the existence and the conditions of after-sales services and commercial guarantees, where applicable; |
| --- | --- |

(f)

in addition to a reminder of the existence of a legal guarantee of conformity for goods,
  the existence and the conditions of after-sales services and commercial guarantees, where applicable;

in addition to a reminder of the existence of a legal guarantee of conformity for goods,

| (fa) | the existence of codes of conduct and how they can be obtained, where applicable; |
| --- | --- |

(fa)

(fa)

the existence of codes of conduct and how they can be obtained, where applicable;

the existence of codes of conduct and how they can be obtained, where applicable;

Amendment 93

Amendment 93

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point g

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point g

| (g) | the duration of the contract where applicable or if the contract is
  open-ended
  , the conditions for terminating the contract; |
| --- | --- |

(g)

the duration of the contract where applicable or if the contract is
  open-ended
  , the conditions for terminating the contract;

open-ended

| (g) | the duration of the contract where applicable or if the contract is
  of indeterminate duration or is to be extended automatically,
  the conditions for terminating the contract; |
| --- | --- |

(g)

the duration of the contract where applicable or if the contract is
  of indeterminate duration or is to be extended automatically,
  the conditions for terminating the contract;

of indeterminate duration or is to be extended automatically,

Amendment 94

Amendment 94

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point i

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point i

| (i) | the existence and the conditions of deposits or other financial guarantees to be paid or provided by the consumer at the request of the trader. |
| --- | --- |

(i)

the existence and the conditions of deposits or other financial guarantees to be paid or provided by the consumer at the request of the trader.

| (i) | where applicable,
  the existence and the conditions of deposits or other financial guarantees to be paid or provided by the consumer at the request of the trader; |
| --- | --- |

(i)

where applicable,
  the existence and the conditions of deposits or other financial guarantees to be paid or provided by the consumer at the request of the trader;

where applicable,

Amendment 95

Amendment 95

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – points i a, i b and i c (new)

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – points i a, i b and i c (new)

| (ia) | the application of technical protection measures for digital content, where applicable; |
| --- | --- |

(ia)

(ia)

the application of technical protection measures for digital content, where applicable;

the application of technical protection measures for digital content, where applicable;

| (ib) | any interoperability of digital content with hardware and software that the trader is aware of or can reasonably be expected to have been aware of, including any lack of interoperability, where applicable; |
| --- | --- |

(ib)

(ib)

any interoperability of digital content with hardware and software that the trader is aware of or can reasonably be expected to have been aware of, including any lack of interoperability, where applicable;

any interoperability of digital content with hardware and software that the trader is aware of or can reasonably be expected to have been aware of, including any lack of interoperability, where applicable;

| (ic) | he possibility of having recourse to an out-of-court complaint and redress mechanism, to which the trader is subject, and the methods for having access to it, where applicable. |
| --- | --- |

(ic)

(ic)

he possibility of having recourse to an out-of-court complaint and redress mechanism, to which the trader is subject, and the methods for having access to it, where applicable.

he possibility of having recourse to an out-of-court complaint and redress mechanism, to which the trader is subject, and the methods for having access to it, where applicable.

Amendment 96

Amendment 96

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 5 – paragraph 2

Article 5 – paragraph 2

2.   
  In the case of a public auction, the information in paragraph 1(b) may be replaced by the geographical address and the identity of the auctioneer

In the case of a public auction, the information in paragraph 1(b) may be replaced by the geographical address and the identity of the auctioneer

2.   
  Paragraph 1 shall not be applicable to contracts for the delivery of a good or the provision of a service, which involve day-to-day transactions and in which the trader has to deliver the good or provide the service immediately when the contract is concluded

Paragraph 1 shall not be applicable to contracts for the delivery of a good or the provision of a service, which involve day-to-day transactions and in which the trader has to deliver the good or provide the service immediately when the contract is concluded

Amendment 97

Amendment 97

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 5 – paragraph 3

Article 5 – paragraph 3

3.   
  The information referred to in paragraph 1 shall form an integral part of the sales or service contract
  .

The information referred to in paragraph 1 shall form an integral part of the sales or service contract

3.   
  Member States may adopt or maintain additional pre-contractual information requirements
  .

Member States may adopt or maintain additional pre-contractual information requirements

Amendment 98

Amendment 98

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 6 – paragraph 2

Article 6 – paragraph 2

2.   Without prejudice to
  Articles 7(2),
  13 and 42, the consequences of any breach of Article 5, shall be determined in accordance with the applicable national law. Member States shall provide in their national laws for effective
  contract law
  remedies for any breach of Article 5.

Articles 7(2),

,

contract law

2.   Without prejudice to
  Articles
  13 and 42, the consequences of any breach of Article 5 shall be determined in accordance with the applicable national law. Member States shall provide in their national laws for effective
  and proportionate
  remedies for any breach of Article 5.

Articles

and proportionate

Amendment 99

Amendment 99

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 7

Article 7

Article 7

Article 7

Specific information requirements for intermediaries

Specific information requirements for intermediaries

1.
     
  Prior to the conclusion of the contract, the intermediary shall disclose to the consumer, that he is acting in the name of or on behalf of another consumer and that the contract concluded, shall not be regarded as a contract between the consumer and the trader but rather as a contract between two consumers and as such falling outside the scope of this Directive.

1.

Prior to the conclusion of the contract, the intermediary shall disclose to the consumer, that he is acting in the name of or on behalf of another consumer and that the contract concluded, shall not be regarded as a contract between the consumer and the trader but rather as a contract between two consumers and as such falling outside the scope of this Directive.

2.
     
  The intermediary, who does not fulfil the obligation under paragraph 1, shall be deemed to have concluded the contract in his own name.

2.

The intermediary, who does not fulfil the obligation under paragraph 1, shall be deemed to have concluded the contract in his own name.

3.
     
  This Article shall not apply to public auctions.

3.

This Article shall not apply to public auctions.

deleted

deleted

Amendment 100

Amendment 100

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 8

Article 8

Article 8

Article 8

Scope

Scope

This Chapter shall apply to distance and off-premises contracts.

This Chapter shall apply to distance and off-premises contracts.

deleted

deleted

Amendment 101

Amendment 101

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 9

Article 9

Article 9

Article 9

Information requirements for distance and off-premises contracts

Information requirements for distance and off-premises contracts

Article 9

Article 9

Pre-contractual
  information requirements for distance and off-premises contracts

Pre-contractual

information requirements for distance and off-premises contracts

As regards
  distance or off-premises
  contracts
  , the trader shall provide the following information
  which shall form an integral part of the contract:

As regards

contracts

which shall form an integral part of the contract:

1.
     
  In good time before the consumer is bound by any
  distance or off-premises
  contract or any corresponding offer,
  the trader shall provide the
  consumer with the
  following information
  in a clear and intelligible manner:

1.

In good time before the consumer is bound by any

contract or any corresponding offer,

consumer with the

in a clear and intelligible manner:

| (a) | the information referred to in Articles 5 and 7 and, by way of derogation from Article 5(1)(d), the arrangements for payment, delivery and performance in all cases
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

the information referred to in Articles 5 and 7 and, by way of derogation from Article 5(1)(d), the arrangements for payment, delivery and performance in all cases
  ;

the information referred to in Articles 5 and 7 and, by way of derogation from Article 5(1)(d), the arrangements for payment, delivery and performance in all cases

| (a) | the main characteristics of the good or service, to the extent appropriate to the medium and the good or service; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

the main characteristics of the good or service, to the extent appropriate to the medium and the good or service;

the main characteristics of the good or service, to the extent appropriate to the medium and the good or service;

| (b) | where a right of withdrawal applies, the conditions and procedures for exercising that right in accordance with Annex I
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

where a right of withdrawal applies, the conditions and procedures for exercising that right in accordance with Annex I
  ;

where a right of withdrawal applies, the conditions and procedures for exercising that right in accordance with Annex I

| (b) | the identity of the trader, such as his trading name
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

the identity of the trader, such as his trading name
  ;

the identity of the trader, such as his trading name

| (ba) | the trader’s business address, telephone number, fax number and e-mail address, where available, to enable the consumer to contact the trader quickly and to communicate with him efficiently; |
| --- | --- |

(ba)

(ba)

the trader’s business address, telephone number, fax number and e-mail address, where available, to enable the consumer to contact the trader quickly and to communicate with him efficiently;

the trader’s business address, telephone number, fax number and e-mail address, where available, to enable the consumer to contact the trader quickly and to communicate with him efficiently;

| (c) | if different from his geographical address, the geographical address of the place of business of the trader (and where applicable that of the trader on whose behalf he is acting) where the consumer can address any complaints
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

if different from his geographical address, the geographical address of the place of business of the trader (and where applicable that of the trader on whose behalf he is acting) where the consumer can address any complaints
  ;

if different from his geographical address, the geographical address of the place of business of the trader (and where applicable that of the trader on whose behalf he is acting) where the consumer can address any complaints

| (c) | the total price inclusive of taxes, or, where the nature of the good or service means that the price cannot reasonably be calculated in advance, the manner in which the price is calculated, as well as, where appropriate, all additional freight, delivery or postal charges and any other cost or, where those charges cannot reasonably be calculated in advance, the fact that such additional charges may be payable; in the case of a contract of indeterminate duration, the total price shall mean the total monthly costs
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

the total price inclusive of taxes, or, where the nature of the good or service means that the price cannot reasonably be calculated in advance, the manner in which the price is calculated, as well as, where appropriate, all additional freight, delivery or postal charges and any other cost or, where those charges cannot reasonably be calculated in advance, the fact that such additional charges may be payable; in the case of a contract of indeterminate duration, the total price shall mean the total monthly costs
  ;

the total price inclusive of taxes, or, where the nature of the good or service means that the price cannot reasonably be calculated in advance, the manner in which the price is calculated, as well as, where appropriate, all additional freight, delivery or postal charges and any other cost or, where those charges cannot reasonably be calculated in advance, the fact that such additional charges may be payable; in the case of a contract of indeterminate duration, the total price shall mean the total monthly costs

| (d) | the existence of codes of conduct and how they can be obtained, where applicable
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

the existence of codes of conduct and how they can be obtained, where applicable
  ;

the existence of codes of conduct and how they can be obtained, where applicable

| (d) | the arrangements for payment, delivery, performance, the date by which the trader undertakes to deliver the goods or to perform the service and the trader’s complaint handling policy
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

the arrangements for payment, delivery, performance, the date by which the trader undertakes to deliver the goods or to perform the service and the trader’s complaint handling policy
  ;

the arrangements for payment, delivery, performance, the date by which the trader undertakes to deliver the goods or to perform the service and the trader’s complaint handling policy

| (e) | the possibility of having recourse to an amicable dispute settlement, where applicable
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(e)

the possibility of having recourse to an amicable dispute settlement, where applicable
  ;

the possibility of having recourse to an amicable dispute settlement, where applicable

| (e) | in so far as a right of withdrawal exists, the conditions, period and procedure for exercising that right including the eventual costs of return of the goods for the consumer; for this purpose, the trader may use the model instructions on withdrawal set out in Annex I(A) and the model withdrawal form set out in Annex I(B), or any other clearly worded statement; if the trader informs the consumer using the model instructions on withdrawal set out in Annex I(A), he shall be deemed to have satisfied the information requirements laid down in this Article concerning the right of withdrawal
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(e)

in so far as a right of withdrawal exists, the conditions, period and procedure for exercising that right including the eventual costs of return of the goods for the consumer; for this purpose, the trader may use the model instructions on withdrawal set out in Annex I(A) and the model withdrawal form set out in Annex I(B), or any other clearly worded statement; if the trader informs the consumer using the model instructions on withdrawal set out in Annex I(A), he shall be deemed to have satisfied the information requirements laid down in this Article concerning the right of withdrawal
  ;

in so far as a right of withdrawal exists, the conditions, period and procedure for exercising that right including the eventual costs of return of the goods for the consumer; for this purpose, the trader may use the model instructions on withdrawal set out in Annex I(A) and the model withdrawal form set out in Annex I(B), or any other clearly worded statement; if the trader informs the consumer using the model instructions on withdrawal set out in Annex I(A), he shall be deemed to have satisfied the information requirements laid down in this Article concerning the right of withdrawal

| (ea) | where a right of withdrawal does not apply in accordance with Article 19(1), the information that the consumer cannot exercise a right of withdrawal; |
| --- | --- |

(ea)

(ea)

where a right of withdrawal does not apply in accordance with Article 19(1), the information that the consumer cannot exercise a right of withdrawal;

where a right of withdrawal does not apply in accordance with Article 19(1), the information that the consumer cannot exercise a right of withdrawal;

| (f) | that the contract will be concluded with a trader and as a result that the consumer will benefit from the protection afforded by this Directive. |
| --- | --- |

(f)

that the contract will be concluded with a trader and as a result that the consumer will benefit from the protection afforded by this Directive.

that the contract will be concluded with a trader and as a result that the consumer will benefit from the protection afforded by this Directive.

| (f) | in addition to a reminder of the existence of a legal guarantee of conformity for goods, the existence and the conditions of after-sales services and commercial guarantees, where applicable; |
| --- | --- |

(f)

in addition to a reminder of the existence of a legal guarantee of conformity for goods, the existence and the conditions of after-sales services and commercial guarantees, where applicable;

in addition to a reminder of the existence of a legal guarantee of conformity for goods, the existence and the conditions of after-sales services and commercial guarantees, where applicable;

| (fa) | the existence of codes of conduct and how copies of them can be obtained, where applicable; |
| --- | --- |

(fa)

(fa)

the existence of codes of conduct and how copies of them can be obtained, where applicable;

the existence of codes of conduct and how copies of them can be obtained, where applicable;

| (fb) | the duration of the contract where applicable, or, if the contract is of indeterminate duration or is to be extended automatically, the conditions for terminating the contract; |
| --- | --- |

(fb)

(fb)

the duration of the contract where applicable, or, if the contract is of indeterminate duration or is to be extended automatically, the conditions for terminating the contract;

the duration of the contract where applicable, or, if the contract is of indeterminate duration or is to be extended automatically, the conditions for terminating the contract;

| (fc) | the minimum duration of the consumer’s obligations under the contract, where applicable; |
| --- | --- |

(fc)

(fc)

the minimum duration of the consumer’s obligations under the contract, where applicable;

the minimum duration of the consumer’s obligations under the contract, where applicable;

| (fd) | the existence and the conditions of deposits or other financial guarantees to be paid or provided by the consumer at the request of the trader; |
| --- | --- |

(fd)

(fd)

the existence and the conditions of deposits or other financial guarantees to be paid or provided by the consumer at the request of the trader;

the existence and the conditions of deposits or other financial guarantees to be paid or provided by the consumer at the request of the trader;

| (fe) | the application of technical protection measures for digital content, where applicable; |
| --- | --- |

(fe)

(fe)

the application of technical protection measures for digital content, where applicable;

the application of technical protection measures for digital content, where applicable;

| (ff) | any interoperability of digital content with hardware and software that the trader is aware of or can reasonably be expected to have been aware of, including any lack of interoperability, where applicable; |
| --- | --- |

(ff)

(ff)

any interoperability of digital content with hardware and software that the trader is aware of or can reasonably be expected to have been aware of, including any lack of interoperability, where applicable;

any interoperability of digital content with hardware and software that the trader is aware of or can reasonably be expected to have been aware of, including any lack of interoperability, where applicable;

| (fg) | the possibility of having recourse to an out-of-court complaint and redress mechanism, to which the trader is subject, and the methods for having access to it, where applicable. |
| --- | --- |

(fg)

(fg)

the possibility of having recourse to an out-of-court complaint and redress mechanism, to which the trader is subject, and the methods for having access to it, where applicable.

the possibility of having recourse to an out-of-court complaint and redress mechanism, to which the trader is subject, and the methods for having access to it, where applicable.

2.
     
  In the case of a public auction, the information referred to in points (b), (ba) and (c) of paragraph 1 may be replaced by the equivalent details for the auctioneer.

2.

In the case of a public auction, the information referred to in points (b), (ba) and (c) of paragraph 1 may be replaced by the equivalent details for the auctioneer.

3.
     
  The information referred to in paragraph 1 shall form an integral part of the distance or off-premises contract.

3.

The information referred to in paragraph 1 shall form an integral part of the distance or off-premises contract.

4.
     
  Member States shall not impose any other requirements on the content of the model instructions on withdrawal set out in Annex I(A).

4.

Member States shall not impose any other requirements on the content of the model instructions on withdrawal set out in Annex I(A).

5.
     
  For distance and off-premises contracts relating to transport services or health and safety requirements, Member States may adopt or maintain provisions of national law laying down additional pre-contractual information requirements provided that they are compatible with the Treaty on the Functioning of European Union and that such requirements are appropriate for the proper information of the consumer.

5.

For distance and off-premises contracts relating to transport services or health and safety requirements, Member States may adopt or maintain provisions of national law laying down additional pre-contractual information requirements provided that they are compatible with the Treaty on the Functioning of European Union and that such requirements are appropriate for the proper information of the consumer.

6.
     
  Member States may adopt or maintain additional pre-contractual information requirements for all distance and off-premises contracts for the provision of services for which, pursuant to Article 22(5) of Directive 2006/123/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 December 2006 on services in the internal market (6), they impose additional information requirements applicable to providers established in their territory.

6.

Member States may adopt or maintain additional pre-contractual information requirements for all distance and off-premises contracts for the provision of services for which, pursuant to Article 22(5) of Directive 2006/123/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 December 2006 on services in the internal market (6

7.
     
  Article 5 shall be without prejudice to Directive 2000/31/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on certain legal aspects of information society services, in particular electronic commerce, in the Internal Market (7).

7.

Article 5 shall be without prejudice to Directive 2000/31/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on certain legal aspects of information society services, in particular electronic commerce, in the Internal Market (7

8.
     
  As regards demonstrating compliance with the information requirements referred to in this Chapter, the burden of proof shall be upon the trader.

8.

As regards demonstrating compliance with the information requirements referred to in this Chapter, the burden of proof shall be upon the trader.

Amendment 102

Amendment 102

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 10 – title

Article 10 – title

Formal requirements for off-premises contracts

Formal requirements for off-premises contracts

Formal
  pre-contractual information
  requirements for off-premises contracts

Formal

pre-contractual information

requirements for off-premises contracts

Amendment 233

Amendment 233

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 10 – paragraph 1

Article 10 – paragraph 1

1.   With respect to off-premises contracts, the information provided for in Article 9 shall be given in the order form in plain
  and
  intelligible language and be legible.
  The order form shall include the standard withdrawal form set out in Annex I(B)
  .

and

The order form shall include the standard withdrawal form set out in Annex I(B)

1.   With respect to off-premises contracts, the information provided for in Article 9 shall be given in the order form
  to the consumer on paper or, if the consumer agrees, on another durable medium
  in plain
  ,
  intelligible language and
  shall
  be legible.

to the consumer on paper or, if the consumer agrees, on another durable medium

,

shall

Amendment 104

Amendment 104

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 10 – paragraph 2

Article 10 – paragraph 2

2.   An off-premises contract shall only
  be
  valid if the consumer
  signs
  an
  order form and in cases where the
  order form
  is not on paper, receives a copy of the order form on another durable medium
  .

be

signs

order form and in cases where the

is not on paper, receives a copy of the order form on another durable medium

2.   An off-premises contract shall only
  become
  valid if the consumer
  has signed
  an order form.

become

has signed

Amendment 234

Amendment 234

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 10 – paragraph 2 a (new)

Article 10 – paragraph 2 a (new)

2a.
     
  Notwithstanding paragraphs 1 and 2, with respect to off-premises mixed contracts for which the trader and the consumer immediately perform their contractual obligations and the payment to be made by the consumer does not exceed EUR 200:

2a.

Notwithstanding paragraphs 1 and 2, with respect to off-premises mixed contracts for which the trader and the consumer immediately perform their contractual obligations and the payment to be made by the consumer does not exceed EUR 200:

| (a) | the trader shall not be required to provide the information set out in Article 9 on paper or another durable medium; and |
| --- | --- |

(a)

(a)

the trader shall not be required to provide the information set out in Article 9 on paper or another durable medium; and

the trader shall not be required to provide the information set out in Article 9 on paper or another durable medium; and

| (b) | the signature by the consumer of an order form shall not be required for the validity of the contract; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

the signature by the consumer of an order form shall not be required for the validity of the contract;

the signature by the consumer of an order form shall not be required for the validity of the contract;

provided that such contracts, due to their nature, are usually concluded away from business premises.

provided that such contracts, due to their nature, are usually concluded away from business premises.

Amendment 105

Amendment 105

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 10 – paragraph 3

Article 10 – paragraph 3

3.   Member States shall not impose any formal requirements
  other than those provided for in paragraphs 1 and 2
  .

other than those provided for in paragraphs 1 and 2

3.   Member States shall not impose any
  further
  formal
  pre-contractual information
  requirements
  for the fulfilment of the information obligations referred to in Article 9(1)
  .

further

pre-contractual information

for the fulfilment of the information obligations referred to in Article 9(1)

Amendment 106

Amendment 106

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 11 – title

Article 11 – title

Formal requirements for distance contracts

Formal requirements for distance contracts

Formal
  pre-contractual information
  requirements for distance contracts

Formal

pre-contractual information

requirements for distance contracts

Amendments 107, 235 and 236

Amendments 107, 235 and 236

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 11 – paragraph 1

Article 11 – paragraph 1

1.   With respect to distance contracts, the information provided for in
  Article 9(a)
  shall be given or made available to the consumer
  prior to the conclusion of the contract,
  in plain and intelligible language and be legible, in a way appropriate to the means of distance communication used.

Article 9(a)

prior to the conclusion of the contract,

1.   With respect to distance contracts, the information provided for in
  Article 9
  shall be given or made available to the consumer
  on a durable medium
  , in plain and intelligible language
  ,
  and
  shall
  be legible, in a way appropriate to the means of distance communication used.

Article 9

on a durable medium

,

shall

1a.
     
  If a distance contract, the terms of which have not been individually negotiated, to be concluded by electronic means for the delivery of a good or the provision of a service, places the consumer under an obligation to make a payment, the consumer shall be bound by the contract only if:

1a.

If a distance contract, the terms of which have not been individually negotiated, to be concluded by electronic means for the delivery of a good or the provision of a service, places the consumer under an obligation to make a payment, the consumer shall be bound by the contract only if:

| (a) | the trader has made the consumer aware in a clear and prominent manner of the total price, including all related price components; and |
| --- | --- |

(a)

(a)

the trader has made the consumer aware in a clear and prominent manner of the total price, including all related price components; and

the trader has made the consumer aware in a clear and prominent manner of the total price, including all related price components; and

| (b) | the consumer has confirmed that he has read and understood the information required under point (a). With regard to contracts concluded through websites, this requirement shall be deemed to be satisfied if the website is designed in such a way that a binding order cannot be placed unless the consumer has previously registered on the trader’s website to use the trader’s offer. |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

the consumer has confirmed that he has read and understood the information required under point (a). With regard to contracts concluded through websites, this requirement shall be deemed to be satisfied if the website is designed in such a way that a binding order cannot be placed unless the consumer has previously registered on the trader’s website to use the trader’s offer.

the consumer has confirmed that he has read and understood the information required under point (a). With regard to contracts concluded through websites, this requirement shall be deemed to be satisfied if the website is designed in such a way that a binding order cannot be placed unless the consumer has previously registered on the trader’s website to use the trader’s offer.

1b.
     
  By way of derogation from point (b) of paragraph 1a, where a distance contract referred to in that paragraph is to be concluded by telephone, the consumer shall be bound by that contract only if the trader has sent the consumer, on a durable medium, confirmation of his offer, including the information required under point (a) of paragraph 1a.

1b.

By way of derogation from point (b) of paragraph 1a, where a distance contract referred to in that paragraph is to be concluded by telephone, the consumer shall be bound by that contract only if the trader has sent the consumer, on a durable medium, confirmation of his offer, including the information required under point (a) of paragraph 1a.

Amendment 108

Amendment 108

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 11 – paragraph 2

Article 11 – paragraph 2

2.   If the trader makes a telephone call to the consumer with a view to concluding a distance contract, he shall disclose his identity and the commercial purpose of the call at the beginning of the conversation with the consumer.

2.   If the trader
  or an intermediary acting on behalf of the trader
  makes a telephone call to the consumer with a view to concluding a distance contract, he shall disclose his identity and the commercial purpose of the call at the beginning of the conversation with the consumer.

or an intermediary acting on behalf of the trader

2a.
     
  Trading websites shall indicate clearly and legibly on their homepage whether there are restrictions of any kind – including on means of payment – regarding delivery to certain Member States.

2a.

Trading websites shall indicate clearly and legibly on their homepage whether there are restrictions of any kind – including on means of payment – regarding delivery to certain Member States.

Amendment 109

Amendment 109

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 11 – paragraph 3

Article 11 – paragraph 3

3.   If the contract is concluded through a medium which allows limited space or time to display the information, the trader shall provide at least the information regarding the main characteristics of the
  product and
  the total price referred to in
  Articles 5
  (1)(a)
  and
  (c)
  on that particular medium prior to the conclusion of such a contract
  . The other information referred to in
  Articles 5 and 7
  shall be provided by the trader to the consumer in an appropriate way in accordance with paragraph 1.

product and

Articles 5

and

on that particular medium prior to the conclusion of such a contract

Articles 5 and 7

3.   If the contract is concluded through a medium which allows limited space or time to display the information, the trader shall provide at least
  , on that particular medium prior to the conclusion of such a contract,
  the
  pre-contractual
  information regarding the main characteristics of the
  good or service,
  the total price
  , the duration of the contract and, if the contract is of indeterminate duration, the conditions for terminating the contract
  referred to in
  Article 9
  (1)(a)
  , (b),
  (c),
  (e) and (g)
  . The other information referred to in
  Article 9
  shall be provided by the trader to the consumer in an appropriate way in accordance with paragraph 1.

, on that particular medium prior to the conclusion of such a contract,

pre-contractual

good or service,

, the duration of the contract and, if the contract is of indeterminate duration, the conditions for terminating the contract

Article 9

, (b),

(e) and (g)

Article 9

Amendment 110

Amendment 110

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 11 – paragraph 4

Article 11 – paragraph 4

4.
     
  The consumer shall receive confirmation of all the information referred to in Article 9(a) to (f), on a durable medium, in reasonable time after the conclusion of any distance contract, and at the latest at the time of the delivery of the goods or when the performance of the service has begun, unless the information has already been given to the consumer prior to the conclusion of any distance contract on a durable medium.

4.

The consumer shall receive confirmation of all the information referred to in Article 9(a) to (f), on a durable medium, in reasonable time after the conclusion of any distance contract, and at the latest at the time of the delivery of the goods or when the performance of the service has begun, unless the information has already been given to the consumer prior to the conclusion of any distance contract on a durable medium.

deleted

deleted

Amendment 237

Amendment 237

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 11 – paragraph 5

Article 11 – paragraph 5

5
  .   Member States shall not impose any
  formal
  requirements
  other than those provided for
  in
  paragraphs 1 to 4
  .

5

formal

other than those provided for

paragraphs 1 to 4

5
  .   Member States shall not impose any
  further
  formal
  pre-contractual information
  requirements for
  the fulfilment of the information obligations referred to
  in
  Article 9(
  1
  ).

5

further

pre-contractual information

the fulfilment of the information obligations referred to

Article 9(

).

Notwithstanding the first subparagraph, with respect to contracts referred to in paragraph 1b of this Article, Member States may introduce or maintain provisions of national law to the effect that the consumer is only bound by the contract if he has confirmed to the trader the conclusion of the contract on a durable medium. Member States shall notify those provisions to the Commission which shall make this information public in an easily accessible way.

Notwithstanding the first subparagraph, with respect to contracts referred to in paragraph 1b of this Article, Member States may introduce or maintain provisions of national law to the effect that the consumer is only bound by the contract if he has confirmed to the trader the conclusion of the contract on a durable medium. Member States shall notify those provisions to the Commission which shall make this information public in an easily accessible way.

Amendment 112

Amendment 112

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 12 – paragraph 1 a (new)

Article 12 – paragraph 1 a (new)

1a.
     
  In the case of a distance or off-premises contract, the withdrawal period referred to in paragraph 1 shall begin from the day of the conclusion of the contract or on the day on which the consumer receives a copy of the signed contract document on a durable medium, if different from the day of conclusion of the contract.

1a.

In the case of a distance or off-premises contract, the withdrawal period referred to in paragraph 1 shall begin from the day of the conclusion of the contract or on the day on which the consumer receives a copy of the signed contract document on a durable medium, if different from the day of conclusion of the contract.

Amendment 113

Amendment 113

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 12 – paragraph 2

Article 12 – paragraph 2

2.   In the case of an off-premises contract, the withdrawal period shall begin from the day
  when
  the consumer
  signs the order form or in cases where the order form is not on paper, when the consumer receives a copy of the order form on another durable medium.

when

signs the order form or in cases where the order form is not on paper, when the consumer receives a copy of the order form on another durable medium.

2.   
  Notwithstanding paragraph 1,
  in the case of a
  distance or
  off-premises contract
  for the delivery of goods,
  the withdrawal period shall begin from the day
  on which
  the consumer
  or a third party other than the carrier and indicated by the consumer acquires material possession of the goods ordered or:

Notwithstanding paragraph 1,

distance or

for the delivery of goods,

on which

or a third party other than the carrier and indicated by the consumer acquires material possession of the goods ordered or:

In the case of a distance contract for the sale of goods, the withdrawal period shall begin from the day on which the consumer or a third party other than the carrier and indicated by the consumer acquires the material possession of each of the goods ordered
  .

In the case of a distance contract for the sale of goods, the withdrawal period shall begin from the day on which the consumer or a third party other than the carrier and indicated by the consumer acquires the material possession of each of the goods ordered

In the case of a distance contract for the provision of services, the withdrawal period shall begin from the day of the conclusion of the contract.

In the case of a distance contract for the provision of services, the withdrawal period shall begin from the day of the conclusion of the contract.

| (a) | in the case of multiple goods ordered by the consumer in one order and delivered separately, of the last good delivered; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

(a)

in the case of multiple goods ordered by the consumer in one order and delivered separately, of the last good delivered;

in the case of multiple goods ordered by the consumer in one order and delivered separately, of the last good delivered;

| (b) | in the case of a good consisting of multiple lots or pieces, of the last lot or piece; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

in the case of a good consisting of multiple lots or pieces, of the last lot or piece;

in the case of a good consisting of multiple lots or pieces, of the last lot or piece;

| (c) | in the case of the recurring delivery of goods of the same kind during a defined period of time, of the first good delivered. |
| --- | --- |

(c)

(c)

in the case of the recurring delivery of goods of the same kind during a defined period of time, of the first good delivered.

in the case of the recurring delivery of goods of the same kind during a defined period of time, of the first good delivered.

Amendment 115

Amendment 115

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 12 – paragraph 4

Article 12 – paragraph 4

4.   The Member States shall not prohibit the parties from performing their obligations
  under the contract
  during the withdrawal period.

under the contract

4.   The Member States shall not prohibit the parties from performing their
  contractual
  obligations during the withdrawal period.
  Nevertheless, in the case of off-premises contracts, Member States may maintain existing national legislation prohibiting the trader from collecting the payment during a given period after the conclusion of the contract
  .

contractual

Nevertheless, in the case of off-premises contracts, Member States may maintain existing national legislation prohibiting the trader from collecting the payment during a given period after the conclusion of the contract

Amendment 116

Amendment 116

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 13

Article 13

If the trader has not provided the consumer with the information on the right of withdrawal in breach of
  Articles 9(b)
  ,
  10(1) and 11(4)
  , the withdrawal period shall expire
  three months after the trader has fully performed his other contractual obligations
  .

Articles 9(b)

10(1) and 11(4)

three months after the trader has fully performed his other contractual obligations

1.
     If the trader has not provided the consumer with the information on the right of withdrawal in breach of
  point (e) of Article 9(1),
  the withdrawal period shall expire
  one year from the end of the initial. withdrawal period, as determined in accordance with Article 12(1a) and (2)
  .

1.

point (e) of Article 9(1),

one year from the end of the initial. withdrawal period, as determined in accordance with Article 12(1a) and (2)

2.
     
  Nevertheless, Member States may maintain existing national legislation providing for a longer period of expiration of the withdrawal period.

2.

Nevertheless, Member States may maintain existing national legislation providing for a longer period of expiration of the withdrawal period.

Amendments 238 and 239

Amendments 238 and 239

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 14 – paragraph 1

Article 14 – paragraph 1

1.   The consumer shall inform the trader of his decision to withdraw
  on a durable medium either in a statement addressed to the trader drafted in his own words or using the standard withdrawal form as set out in Annex I(B).

on a durable medium either in a statement addressed to the trader drafted in his own words or using the standard withdrawal form as set out in Annex I(B)

1.   
  Before expiry of the withdrawal period,
  the consumer shall inform the trader of his decision to withdraw.
  For this purpose, the consumer may either:

Before expiry of the withdrawal period,

For this purpose, the consumer may either:

| (a) | use the model withdrawal form set out in Annex I(B) or make any other clearly worded statement; or |
| --- | --- |

(a)

(a)

use the model withdrawal form set out in Annex I(B) or make any other clearly worded statement; or

use the model withdrawal form set out in Annex I(B) or make any other clearly worded statement; or

| (b) | return the goods to the trader, accompanied by a clearly worded statement setting out the consumer’s decision to withdraw
  . |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

return the goods to the trader, accompanied by a clearly worded statement setting out the consumer’s decision to withdraw
  .

return the goods to the trader, accompanied by a clearly worded statement setting out the consumer’s decision to withdraw

Member States shall not provide for any
  other
  formal requirements applicable to
  this standard
  withdrawal form.

other

this standard

Member States shall not provide for any formal requirements applicable to
  the model
  withdrawal form
  other than those set out in Annex I(B).

the model

other than those set out in Annex I(B).

Amendment 240

Amendment 240

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 14 – paragraph 2

Article 14 – paragraph 2

2.   For distance contracts concluded on the Internet, the trader may, in addition to the possibilities referred to in paragraph 1, give the option to the consumer to electronically fill in and submit the
  standard
  withdrawal form on the trader’s website. In
  that case
  the trader shall communicate to the consumer an acknowledgement of receipt of such a withdrawal by email without delay.

standard

that case

2.   For distance contracts concluded on the Internet, the trader may, in addition to the possibilities referred to in paragraph 1, give the option to the consumer to electronically fill in and submit
  either
  the
  model
  withdrawal form
  set out in Annex I(B) or any other clearly worded statement
  on the trader’s website. In
  those cases
  the trader shall communicate to the consumer an acknowledgement of receipt of such a withdrawal by email
  on a durable medium
  without delay.

2.

either

model

set out in Annex I(B) or any other clearly worded statement

those cases

on a durable medium

Amendment 119

Amendment 119

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 15 – points a and b

Article 15 – points a and b

| (a) | to perform the distance or off-premises contract, or |
| --- | --- |

(a)

to perform the distance or off-premises contract, or

| (a) | to perform the distance or off-premises contract, or |
| --- | --- |

(a)

to perform the distance or off-premises contract, or

| (b) | to conclude
  an
  off-premises contract, in cases where an offer was made by the consumer. |
| --- | --- |

(b)

to conclude
  an
  off-premises contract, in cases where an offer was made by the consumer.

an

| (b) | to conclude
  the distance or
  off-premises contract, in cases where an offer was made by the consumer. |
| --- | --- |

(b)

to conclude
  the distance or
  off-premises contract, in cases where an offer was made by the consumer.

the distance or

Amendment 120

Amendment 120

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 16 – paragraph 1

Article 16 – paragraph 1

1.   The trader shall reimburse any payment received from the consumer
  within thirty
  days from the day on which he
  receives the communication of withdrawal
  .

within thirty

receives the communication of withdrawal

1.   The trader shall reimburse any payment received from the consumer
  , including, if applicable, the costs of delivery, without undue delay, and in any event not later than fourteen
  days from the day on which he
  is informed of the consumer’s decision to withdraw in accordance with Article 14
  .
  The trader may carry out such reimbursement by any means of payment which is legal tender in the country where the consumer receives it, and provided that the consumer does not incur any fees as a result of the reimbursement
  .

, including, if applicable, the costs of delivery, without undue delay, and in any event not later than fourteen

is informed of the consumer’s decision to withdraw in accordance with Article 14

The trader may carry out such reimbursement by any means of payment which is legal tender in the country where the consumer receives it, and provided that the consumer does not incur any fees as a result of the reimbursement

Amendment 241

Amendment 241

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 16 – paragraph 2

Article 16 – paragraph 2

2.   For sales contracts, the trader may
  withhold the
  reimbursement
  until he has received or collected the goods back, or
  the consumer has supplied evidence of having sent back the goods
  , whichever is the earliest
  .

withhold the

until he has received or collected the goods back, or

, whichever is the earliest

2.   
  Notwithstanding paragraph 1, the trader shall not be required to reimburse additional delivery costs, if the consumer has expressly opted for a type of delivery other than a standard delivery.
  For sales contracts, the trader may
  make
  reimbursement
  subject to
  the
  condition that
  the consumer has supplied evidence of having sent back the goods.

Notwithstanding paragraph 1, the trader shall not be required to reimburse additional delivery costs, if the consumer has expressly opted for a type of delivery other than a standard delivery.

make

subject to

condition that

Amendment 122

Amendment 122

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 17 – paragraph 1

Article 17 – paragraph 1

1.   For
  sales
  contracts for
  which the material possession of the goods has been transferred to the consumer or at his request, to a third party before the expiration of the withdrawal period,
  the consumer shall send back the goods or hand them over to the trader or to a person authorised by the trader to receive them,
  within
  fourteen days from the day on which he communicates his
  withdrawal
  to the trader, unless the trader has offered to collect the goods himself.

sales

which the material possession of the goods has been transferred to the consumer or at his request, to a third party before the expiration of the withdrawal period,

within

withdrawal

1.   For
  distance or off-premises
  contracts for
  the supply of goods
  the consumer shall send back the goods or hand them over to the trader or to a person authorised by the trader to receive them,
  without undue delay and in any event not later than
  fourteen days from the day on which he communicates his
  decision to withdraw
  to the trader
  in accordance with Article 14
  , unless the trader has offered to collect the goods himself.

distance or off-premises

the supply of goods

without undue delay and in any event not later than

decision to withdraw

in accordance with Article 14

The consumer shall only be charged for the direct cost of returning the goods
  unless
  the trader has agreed to bear
  that cost
  .

unless

that cost

The consumer shall only be charged for the direct cost of returning the goods
  . He shall not be charged for that cost if
  the trader has agreed
  in the contract
  to bear
  it or the price of the goods to be returned is more than EUR 40
  .

. He shall not be charged for that cost if

in the contract

it or the price of the goods to be returned is more than EUR 40

Amendment 123

Amendment 123

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 17 – paragraph 2

Article 17 – paragraph 2

2.   The consumer shall only be liable for any diminished value of the goods resulting from the handling other than what is necessary to
  ascertain
  the nature and functioning of the goods.
  He
  shall not be liable for diminished value where the trader has failed to provide notice of the withdrawal
  right
  in accordance with
  Article 9(b)
  .
  For service contracts subject to a right of withdrawal, the consumer shall bear no cost for services performed, in full or in part, during the withdrawal period.

ascertain

He

right

Article 9(b)

For service contracts subject to a right of withdrawal, the consumer shall bear no cost for services performed, in full or in part, during the withdrawal period.

2.   The consumer shall only be liable for any diminished value of the goods resulting from the handling other than what is necessary to
  establish
  the nature
  , qualities
  and functioning of the goods.
  The consumer
  shall
  in any event
  not be liable for
  any
  diminished value
  of the goods
  where the trader has failed to provide notice of the
  right of
  withdrawal in accordance with
  point (e) of Article 9(1)
  .

establish

, qualities

The consumer

in any event

any

of the goods

right of

point (e) of Article 9(1)

2a.
     
  Except as provided for in this Article, the consumer shall not incur any liability through the exercise of the right of withdrawal.

2a.

Except as provided for in this Article, the consumer shall not incur any liability through the exercise of the right of withdrawal.

Amendment 125

Amendment 125

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 18 – paragraph 1

Article 18 – paragraph 1

1.   Without prejudice to Article 15 of Directive 2008/48/EC, if the consumer exercises his right of withdrawal from a distance or an off-premises contract in accordance with Articles 12 to 17, any
  ancillary
  contracts shall be automatically terminated, without any costs for the consumer.

ancillary

1.   Without prejudice to Article 15 of Directive 2008/48/EC, if the consumer exercises his right of withdrawal from a distance or an off-premises contract in accordance with Articles 12 to 17, any
  linked
  contracts shall be automatically terminated, without any costs for the consumer
  that are not provided for in this Directive
  .

linked

that are not provided for in this Directive

Amendment 126

Amendment 126

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 19 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Article 19 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

1.   In respect of distance contracts, the right of withdrawal shall not apply as regards the following:

1.   In respect of distance
  and off-premises
  contracts, the right of withdrawal shall not apply as regards the following:

and off-premises

Amendment 127

Amendment 127

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point a

Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point a

| (a) | services where performance has begun, with the consumer’s prior express consent, before the end of the fourteen day period referred to in Article 12; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

services where performance has begun, with the consumer’s prior express consent, before the end of the fourteen day period referred to in Article 12;

| (a) | services where performance has begun, with the consumer’s prior express consent
  on a durable medium
  , before the end of the fourteen day period referred to in Article 12;
  in such cases, the consent should also extend to waiving the consumer’s right of withdrawal; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

services where performance has begun, with the consumer’s prior express consent
  on a durable medium
  , before the end of the fourteen day period referred to in Article 12;
  in such cases, the consent should also extend to waiving the consumer’s right of withdrawal;

on a durable medium

in such cases, the consent should also extend to waiving the consumer’s right of withdrawal;

Amendment 128

Amendment 128

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point b

Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point b

| (b) | the supply of goods or services for which the price is dependent on fluctuations in the
  financial
  market which cannot be controlled by the trader; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

the supply of goods or services for which the price is dependent on fluctuations in the
  financial
  market which cannot be controlled by the trader;

financial

| (b) | the supply of goods or services for which the price is dependent on fluctuations in the market which cannot be controlled by the trader
  and which might occur within the withdrawal period
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

the supply of goods or services for which the price is dependent on fluctuations in the market which cannot be controlled by the trader
  and which might occur within the withdrawal period
  ;

and which might occur within the withdrawal period

Amendment 129

Amendment 129

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point c

Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point c

| (c) | the supply of goods made to the consumer’s specifications or clearly personalized or which are liable to deteriorate or expire rapidly; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

the supply of goods made to the consumer’s specifications or clearly personalized or which are liable to deteriorate or expire rapidly;

| (c) | the supply of goods made
  or services provided
  to the consumer’s specifications or clearly personalized
  , requiring the trader to make individual arrangements which he can make no other use of,
  or which are liable to deteriorate or expire rapidly; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

the supply of goods made
  or services provided
  to the consumer’s specifications or clearly personalized
  , requiring the trader to make individual arrangements which he can make no other use of,
  or which are liable to deteriorate or expire rapidly;

or services provided

, requiring the trader to make individual arrangements which he can make no other use of,

Amendment 130

Amendment 130

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point d

Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point d

| (d) | the supply
  of wine, the price of which has been agreed upon at the time of the conclusion of the sales contract, the delivery of which can only take place beyond the time-limit referred to in Article 22(1) and the actual value of which is dependent on fluctuations in the market which cannot be controlled by the trader; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

the supply
  of wine, the price of which has been agreed upon at the time of the conclusion of the sales contract, the delivery of which can only take place beyond the time-limit referred to in Article 22(1) and the actual value of which is dependent on fluctuations in the market which cannot be controlled by the trader;

of wine, the price of which has been agreed upon at the time of the conclusion of the sales contract, the delivery of which can only take place beyond the time-limit referred to in Article 22(1) and the actual value of which is dependent on fluctuations in the market which cannot be controlled by the trader;

| (d) | the supply of: |
| --- | --- |

(d)

the supply of:

:

| — | foodstuffs, |
| --- | --- |

—

foodstuffs,

foodstuffs,

| — | beverages, |
| --- | --- |

—

beverages,

beverages,

| — | pharmaceuticals, or |
| --- | --- |

—

pharmaceuticals, or

pharmaceuticals, or

| — | other hygienically sensitive goods, whose packaging or sealing has already been opened by the consumer, after having been informed about the exclusion of the right of withdrawal; |
| --- | --- |

—

other hygienically sensitive goods, whose packaging or sealing has already been opened by the consumer, after having been informed about the exclusion of the right of withdrawal;

other hygienically sensitive goods, whose packaging or sealing has already been opened by the consumer, after having been informed about the exclusion of the right of withdrawal;

| (da) | contracts in respect of which the consumer, in order to respond to an immediate emergency, has requested immediate performance by the trader; if, on this occasion, the trader provides or sells additional services or goods other than those which are strictly necessary to meet the immediate emergency of the consumer, the right of withdrawal shall apply to those additional goods or services; |
| --- | --- |

(da)

(da)

contracts in respect of which the consumer, in order to respond to an immediate emergency, has requested immediate performance by the trader; if, on this occasion, the trader provides or sells additional services or goods other than those which are strictly necessary to meet the immediate emergency of the consumer, the right of withdrawal shall apply to those additional goods or services;

contracts in respect of which the consumer, in order to respond to an immediate emergency, has requested immediate performance by the trader; if, on this occasion, the trader provides or sells additional services or goods other than those which are strictly necessary to meet the immediate emergency of the consumer, the right of withdrawal shall apply to those additional goods or services;

| (db) | contracts for which the consumer has specifically requested the trader to visit him at home for the purpose of carrying out repairs or maintenance; if, on the occasion of such a visit, the trader provides services in addition to those specifically requested by the consumer or goods other than replacement parts necessarily used in performing the maintenance or in making the repairs, the right of withdrawal shall apply to those additional services or goods; |
| --- | --- |

(db)

(db)

contracts for which the consumer has specifically requested the trader to visit him at home for the purpose of carrying out repairs or maintenance; if, on the occasion of such a visit, the trader provides services in addition to those specifically requested by the consumer or goods other than replacement parts necessarily used in performing the maintenance or in making the repairs, the right of withdrawal shall apply to those additional services or goods;

contracts for which the consumer has specifically requested the trader to visit him at home for the purpose of carrying out repairs or maintenance; if, on the occasion of such a visit, the trader provides services in addition to those specifically requested by the consumer or goods other than replacement parts necessarily used in performing the maintenance or in making the repairs, the right of withdrawal shall apply to those additional services or goods;

Amendment 132

Amendment 132

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point f

Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point f

| (f) | the supply of newspapers, periodicals and magazines; |
| --- | --- |

(f)

the supply of newspapers, periodicals and magazines;

| (f) | the supply of newspapers, periodicals and magazines
  with the exception of subscription contracts for the supply of such publications
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(f)

the supply of newspapers, periodicals and magazines
  with the exception of subscription contracts for the supply of such publications
  ;

with the exception of subscription contracts for the supply of such publications

Amendment 133

Amendment 133

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point g

Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point g

| (g) | gaming and lottery services; |
| --- | --- |

(g)

(g)

gaming and lottery services;

gaming and lottery services;

deleted

deleted

Amendment 134

Amendment 134

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point h

Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point h

| (h) | contracts concluded at
  an
  auction. |
| --- | --- |

(h)

contracts concluded at
  an
  auction.

an

| (h) | contracts concluded at
  a public
  auction. |
| --- | --- |

(h)

contracts concluded at
  a public
  auction.

a public

| (ha) | the supply of digital content once the consumer has started to download that digital content. |
| --- | --- |

(ha)

(ha)

the supply of digital content once the consumer has started to download that digital content.

the supply of digital content once the consumer has started to download that digital content.

Amendment 135

Amendment 135

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 19 – paragraph 2

Article 19 – paragraph 2

2.
     
  In respect of off-premises contracts, the right of withdrawal shall not apply as regards the following:

2.

In respect of off-premises contracts, the right of withdrawal shall not apply as regards the following:

| (a) | contracts for the supply of foodstuffs, beverages or other goods intended for current consumption in the household, selected in advance by the consumer by means of distance communication and physically supplied to the consumer’s home, residence or workplace by the trader who usually sells such goods on his own business premises; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

(a)

contracts for the supply of foodstuffs, beverages or other goods intended for current consumption in the household, selected in advance by the consumer by means of distance communication and physically supplied to the consumer’s home, residence or workplace by the trader who usually sells such goods on his own business premises;

contracts for the supply of foodstuffs, beverages or other goods intended for current consumption in the household, selected in advance by the consumer by means of distance communication and physically supplied to the consumer’s home, residence or workplace by the trader who usually sells such goods on his own business premises;

| (b) | contracts for which the consumer, in order to respond to an immediate emergency, has requested the immediate performance of the contract by the trader; if, on this occasion, the trader provides or sells additional services or goods other than those which are strictly necessary to meet the immediate emergency of the consumer, the right of withdrawal shall apply to those additional services or goods; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

contracts for which the consumer, in order to respond to an immediate emergency, has requested the immediate performance of the contract by the trader; if, on this occasion, the trader provides or sells additional services or goods other than those which are strictly necessary to meet the immediate emergency of the consumer, the right of withdrawal shall apply to those additional services or goods;

contracts for which the consumer, in order to respond to an immediate emergency, has requested the immediate performance of the contract by the trader; if, on this occasion, the trader provides or sells additional services or goods other than those which are strictly necessary to meet the immediate emergency of the consumer, the right of withdrawal shall apply to those additional services or goods;

| (c) | contracts for which the consumer has specifically requested the trader, by means of distance communication, to visit his home for the purpose of repairing or performing maintenance upon his property; if on this occasion, the trader provides services in addition to those specifically requested by the consumer or goods other than replacement parts necessarily used in performing the maintenance or in making the repairs, the right of withdrawal shall apply to those additional services or goods. |
| --- | --- |

(c)

(c)

contracts for which the consumer has specifically requested the trader, by means of distance communication, to visit his home for the purpose of repairing or performing maintenance upon his property; if on this occasion, the trader provides services in addition to those specifically requested by the consumer or goods other than replacement parts necessarily used in performing the maintenance or in making the repairs, the right of withdrawal shall apply to those additional services or goods.

contracts for which the consumer has specifically requested the trader, by means of distance communication, to visit his home for the purpose of repairing or performing maintenance upon his property; if on this occasion, the trader provides services in addition to those specifically requested by the consumer or goods other than replacement parts necessarily used in performing the maintenance or in making the repairs, the right of withdrawal shall apply to those additional services or goods.

deleted

deleted

Amendment 136

Amendment 136

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 19 – paragraph 3

Article 19 – paragraph 3

3.
     The
  parties
  may agree not to apply
  paragraphs 1 and 2
  .

3.

parties

paragraphs 1 and 2

2.
     The
  trader and the consumer
  may agree not to apply
  paragraph 1
  .

2.

trader and the consumer

paragraph 1

Amendment 137

Amendment 137

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 20

Article 20

Article 20

Article 20

Excluded distance and off-premises contracts

Excluded distance and off-premises contracts

1.
     
  Articles 8 to 19 shall not apply to distance and off-premises contracts:

1.

Articles 8 to 19 shall not apply to distance and off-premises contracts:

| (a) | for the sale of immovable property or relating to other immovable property rights, except for rental and works relating to immovable property; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

(a)

for the sale of immovable property or relating to other immovable property rights, except for rental and works relating to immovable property;

for the sale of immovable property or relating to other immovable property rights, except for rental and works relating to immovable property;

| (b) | concluded by means of automatic vending machines or automated commercial premises; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

concluded by means of automatic vending machines or automated commercial premises;

concluded by means of automatic vending machines or automated commercial premises;

| (c) | concluded with telecommunications operators through public payphones for their use; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

(c)

concluded with telecommunications operators through public payphones for their use;

concluded with telecommunications operators through public payphones for their use;

| (d) | for the supply of foodstuffs or beverages by a trader on frequent and regular rounds in the neighbourhood of his business premises. |
| --- | --- |

(d)

(d)

for the supply of foodstuffs or beverages by a trader on frequent and regular rounds in the neighbourhood of his business premises.

for the supply of foodstuffs or beverages by a trader on frequent and regular rounds in the neighbourhood of his business premises.

2.
     
  Articles 8 to 19 shall not apply to off-premises contracts relating to:

2.

Articles 8 to 19 shall not apply to off-premises contracts relating to:

| (a) | insurance, |
| --- | --- |

(a)

(a)

insurance,

insurance,

| (b) | financial services whose price depends on fluctuations in the financial market outside the trader’s control, which may occur during the withdrawal period, as defined in Article 6(2)(a) of Directive 2002/65/EC and |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

financial services whose price depends on fluctuations in the financial market outside the trader’s control, which may occur during the withdrawal period, as defined in Article 6(2)(a) of Directive 2002/65/EC and

financial services whose price depends on fluctuations in the financial market outside the trader’s control, which may occur during the withdrawal period, as defined in Article 6(2)(a) of Directive 2002/65/EC and

| (c) | credit which falls within the scope of Directive 2008/48/EC. |
| --- | --- |

(c)

(c)

credit which falls within the scope of Directive 2008/48/EC.

credit which falls within the scope of Directive 2008/48/EC.

3.
     
  Articles 8 to 19 shall not apply to distance contracts for the provision of accommodation, transport, car rental services, catering or leisure services as regards contracts providing for a specific date or period of performance.

3.

Articles 8 to 19 shall not apply to distance contracts for the provision of accommodation, transport, car rental services, catering or leisure services as regards contracts providing for a specific date or period of performance.

deleted

deleted

Amendment 138

Amendment 138

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 21

Article 21

Article 21

Article 21

Scope

Scope

1.
     
  This Chapter shall apply to sales contracts. Without prejudice to Article 24(5), where the contract is a mixed-purpose contract having as its object both goods and services, this Chapter shall only apply to the goods

1.

This Chapter shall apply to sales contracts. Without prejudice to Article 24(5), where the contract is a mixed-purpose contract having as its object both goods and services, this Chapter shall only apply to the goods

2.
     
  This Chapter shall also apply to contracts for the supply of goods to be manufactured or produced.

2.

This Chapter shall also apply to contracts for the supply of goods to be manufactured or produced.

3.
     
  This Chapter shall not apply to the spare parts replaced by the trader when he has remedied the lack of conformity of the goods by repair under Article 26.

3.

This Chapter shall not apply to the spare parts replaced by the trader when he has remedied the lack of conformity of the goods by repair under Article 26.

4.
     
  Member States may decide not to apply this Chapter to the sale of second-hand goods at public auctions

4.

Member States may decide not to apply this Chapter to the sale of second-hand goods at public auctions

deleted

deleted

Amendment 139

Amendment 139

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 22 – paragraph 1

Article 22 – paragraph 1

1.   
  Unless
  the parties have agreed
  otherwise
  , the trader shall deliver the goods by transferring the material possession of the goods to the consumer or to a third party, other than the carrier
  and indicated by the consumer, within a maximum of
  thirty days from the day of the conclusion of the contract.

Unless

otherwise

and indicated by the consumer, within a maximum of

1.   
  In the event that
  the parties have
  not
  agreed
  on the time of delivery
  , the trader shall deliver the goods by transferring the material possession of the goods to the consumer or to a third party,
  indicated by the consumer and
  other than the carrier
  , as soon as possible but not later than
  thirty days from the day of the conclusion of the contract.

In the event that

not

on the time of delivery

indicated by the consumer and

, as soon as possible but not later than

Amendment 140

Amendment 140

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 22 – paragraph 2

Article 22 – paragraph 2

2.   Where the trader has failed to fulfil his obligations to deliver, the consumer shall be entitled to
  a refund of any sums paid within seven days from the date of delivery provided for in paragraph 1
  .

a refund of any sums paid within seven days from the date of delivery provided for in paragraph 1

2.   Where the trader has failed to fulfil his obligations to deliver
  the goods at the time agreed on with the consumer, or in accordance with paragraph 1,
  the consumer shall be entitled to
  terminate the contract unless the goods are delivered within a new period to be determined by the consumer, which shall not exceed seven days. To that end, the consumer shall give prior notice in writing to the trader, specifying the new delivery period and stating his intention to terminate the contract in the event that the delivery does not take place by the end of that new delivery period. If, upon expiry of that period, no action has been taken, the consumer shall be deemed to have withdrawn from the contract.

the goods at the time agreed on with the consumer, or in accordance with paragraph 1,

terminate the contract unless the goods are delivered within a new period to be determined by the consumer, which shall not exceed seven days. To that end, the consumer shall give prior notice in writing to the trader, specifying the new delivery period and stating his intention to terminate the contract in the event that the delivery does not take place by the end of that new delivery period. If, upon expiry of that period, no action has been taken, the consumer shall be deemed to have withdrawn from the contract.

Notwithstanding the first subparagraph, the consumer shall be entitled to terminate the contract with immediate effect where the trader has implicitly or explicitly refused to deliver the goods, or where compliance with the agreed time of delivery is regarded as an essential element of the contract, taking into account the circumstances attending the conclusion of the contract.

Notwithstanding the first subparagraph, the consumer shall be entitled to terminate the contract with immediate effect where the trader has implicitly or explicitly refused to deliver the goods, or where compliance with the agreed time of delivery is regarded as an essential element of the contract, taking into account the circumstances attending the conclusion of the contract.

2a.
     
  Upon termination of the contract, the trader shall immediately, and in any event not later than seven days after the termination of the contract, reimburse all sums paid under the contract.

2a.

Upon termination of the contract, the trader shall immediately, and in any event not later than seven days after the termination of the contract, reimburse all sums paid under the contract.

2b.
     
  This Article shall be without prejudice to the right of the consumer to claim damages.

2b.

This Article shall be without prejudice to the right of the consumer to claim damages.

Amendment 141

Amendment 141

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 22 a (new)

Article 22 a (new)

Article 22a

Article 22a

Right to delivery of goods to or supply of services in another Member State

Right to delivery of goods to or supply of services in another Member State

In the case of a distance contract, the consumer shall be entitled to require the trader to deliver the goods or supply the service in another Member State. The trader shall meet the consumer’s request if this is technically feasible and if the consumer agrees to bear all the related costs. The trader shall in any event state those costs in advance.

In the case of a distance contract, the consumer shall be entitled to require the trader to deliver the goods or supply the service in another Member State. The trader shall meet the consumer’s request if this is technically feasible and if the consumer agrees to bear all the related costs. The trader shall in any event state those costs in advance.

Amendment 142

Amendment 142

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 22 b (new)

Article 22 b (new)

Article 22b

Article 22b

Means of payment

Means of payment

1.
     
  The trader and consumer may agree on an advance payment or a deposit on delivery.

1.

The trader and consumer may agree on an advance payment or a deposit on delivery.

2.
     
  In accordance with Article 52(3) of Directive 2007/64/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 November 2007 on payment services in the internal market (8), Member States may prohibit or limit traders’ right to request charges from consumers taking into account the need to encourage competition and promote the use of efficient payment instruments.

2.

In accordance with Article 52(3) of Directive 2007/64/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 November 2007 on payment services in the internal market (8

3.
     
  Member States shall prohibit traders from charging consumers, in respect of the use of a given means of payment, fees that exceed the cost borne by the trader for the use of such means.

3.

Member States shall prohibit traders from charging consumers, in respect of the use of a given means of payment, fees that exceed the cost borne by the trader for the use of such means.

Amendment 143

Amendment 143

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 23 – paragraph 1

Article 23 – paragraph 1

1.   The risk of loss of or damage to the goods shall pass to the consumer when he or a third party, other than the carrier
  and indicated by the consumer
  has acquired the material possession of the goods.

and indicated by the consumer

1.   The risk of loss of or damage to the goods shall pass to the consumer when he or a third party,
  indicated by the consumer and
  other than the carrier, has acquired the material possession of the goods.
  The risk shall pass to the consumer upon delivery to the carrier, if the carrier was commissioned to carry the goods by the consumer and that choice was not offered by the trader, without prejudice to the rights of the consumer against the carrier.

indicated by the consumer and

The risk shall pass to the consumer upon delivery to the carrier, if the carrier was commissioned to carry the goods by the consumer and that choice was not offered by the trader, without prejudice to the rights of the consumer against the carrier.

Amendment 144

Amendment 144

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 23 – paragraph 2

Article 23 – paragraph 2

2.   The risk referred to in paragraph 1 shall pass to the consumer at the time of delivery as agreed by the parties, if the consumer or a third party, other than the carrier and indicated by the consumer has failed to take reasonable steps to acquire the material possession of the goods.

2.   The risk referred to in paragraph 1 shall pass to the consumer at the time of delivery as agreed by the parties, if the consumer or a third party, other than the carrier and indicated by the consumer has
  manifestly
  failed to take reasonable steps to acquire the material possession of the goods.

manifestly

Amendment 145

Amendment 145

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 23 a (new)

Article 23 a (new)

Article 23a

Article 23a

Duration of contracts

Duration of contracts

1.
     
  Without prejudice of the provisions of this Directive on unfair contract terms, contracts concluded between consumers and traders shall not stipulate an initial commitment period of more than 12 months.

1.

Without prejudice of the provisions of this Directive on unfair contract terms, contracts concluded between consumers and traders shall not stipulate an initial commitment period of more than 12 months.

2.
     
  At the end of the initial 12-month commitment period, consumers shall be entitled to terminate the contract at any time. Termination of the contract shall be subject to a period of prior notice, which shall not exceed two months. Consumers shall be entitled to give such prior notice before the end of the initial 12-month commitment period in order to terminate the contract with effect from the end of that period.

2.

At the end of the initial 12-month commitment period, consumers shall be entitled to terminate the contract at any time. Termination of the contract shall be subject to a period of prior notice, which shall not exceed two months. Consumers shall be entitled to give such prior notice before the end of the initial 12-month commitment period in order to terminate the contract with effect from the end of that period.

Amendment 146

Amendment 146

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 24 – paragraph 1

Article 24 – paragraph 1

1.   The trader shall deliver the goods in conformity with the
  sales
  contract.

sales

1.   The trader shall deliver the goods in conformity with the contract
  , in particular as regards quality and quantity, that were jointly agreed upon by the parties
  .

, in particular as regards quality and quantity, that were jointly agreed upon by the parties

Amendment 147

Amendment 147

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 24 – paragraph 2 – point a

Article 24 – paragraph 2 – point a

| (a) | they comply with the description given by the trader and possess the qualities of the goods which the trader has presented to the consumer as a sample or model
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

they comply with the description given by the trader and possess the qualities of the goods which the trader has presented to the consumer as a sample or model
  ;

;

| (a) | they comply with the description given by the trader and possess the qualities of the goods which the trader has presented to the consumer as a sample or model
  , and |
| --- | --- |

(a)

they comply with the description given by the trader and possess the qualities of the goods which the trader has presented to the consumer as a sample or model
  , and

, and

Amendment 148

Amendment 148

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 24 – paragraph 2 – point b

Article 24 – paragraph 2 – point b

| (b) | they are fit for
  any particular
  purpose for which
  the consumer requires
  them
  and which he made known to the trader
  at the time of the conclusion of the contract
  and which the trader has accepted; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

they are fit for
  any particular
  purpose for which
  the consumer requires
  them
  and which he made known to the trader
  at the time of the conclusion of the contract
  and which the trader has accepted;

any particular

the consumer requires

and which he made known to the trader

and which the trader has accepted;

| (b) | they are fit
  , in the absence of an agreement on their characteristics,
  for the purpose for which
  the parties to the contract intended
  them at the time of the conclusion of the contract
  , and |
| --- | --- |

(b)

they are fit
  , in the absence of an agreement on their characteristics,
  for the purpose for which
  the parties to the contract intended
  them at the time of the conclusion of the contract
  , and

, in the absence of an agreement on their characteristics,

the parties to the contract intended

, and

Amendment 149

Amendment 149

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 24 – paragraph 2 – points c and d

Article 24 – paragraph 2 – points c and d

| (c) | they are fit for the purposes for which goods of the same type
  are
  normally used
  or |
| --- | --- |

(c)

they are fit for the purposes for which goods of the same type
  are
  normally used
  or

are

or

| (c) | they are fit for the purposes for which goods of the same type
  would
  normally
  be
  used
  and they show the quality and performance which are normal in goods of the same type, taking into account inter alia the purpose, the appearance, the durability and the finish, and which the consumer can reasonably expect, given the nature of the goods and taking into account any public statements on the specific characteristics of the goods made about them by the trader, the producer or his representative, particularly in advertising or on labelling
  . |
| --- | --- |

(c)

they are fit for the purposes for which goods of the same type
  would
  normally
  be
  used
  and they show the quality and performance which are normal in goods of the same type, taking into account inter alia the purpose, the appearance, the durability and the finish, and which the consumer can reasonably expect, given the nature of the goods and taking into account any public statements on the specific characteristics of the goods made about them by the trader, the producer or his representative, particularly in advertising or on labelling
  .

would

be

and they show the quality and performance which are normal in goods of the same type, taking into account inter alia the purpose, the appearance, the durability and the finish, and which the consumer can reasonably expect, given the nature of the goods and taking into account any public statements on the specific characteristics of the goods made about them by the trader, the producer or his representative, particularly in advertising or on labelling

| (d) | they show the quality and performance which are normal in goods of the same type and which the consumer can reasonably expect, given the nature of the goods and taking into account any public statements on the specific characteristics of the goods made about them by the trader, the producer or his representative, particularly in advertising or on labelling
  . |
| --- | --- |

(d)

(d)

they show the quality and performance which are normal in goods of the same type and which the consumer can reasonably expect, given the nature of the goods and taking into account any public statements on the specific characteristics of the goods made about them by the trader, the producer or his representative, particularly in advertising or on labelling
  .

they show the quality and performance which are normal in goods of the same type and which the consumer can reasonably expect, given the nature of the goods and taking into account any public statements on the specific characteristics of the goods made about them by the trader, the producer or his representative, particularly in advertising or on labelling

Amendment 151

Amendment 151

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 24 – paragraph 4 – point b

Article 24 – paragraph 4 – point b

| (b) | by the time of conclusion of the contract the statement had been corrected; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

by the time of conclusion of the contract the statement had been corrected;

| (b) | by the time of conclusion of the contract the statement had been corrected
  in due time and in a manner equivalent to that in which it was made or at least prominently in the contract document
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

by the time of conclusion of the contract the statement had been corrected
  in due time and in a manner equivalent to that in which it was made or at least prominently in the contract document
  ;

in due time and in a manner equivalent to that in which it was made or at least prominently in the contract document

Amendment 152

Amendment 152

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 24 – paragraph 5

Article 24 – paragraph 5

5.   Any lack of conformity resulting from the incorrect installation
  of the goods shall be considered as a lack of conformity of the goods
  where the installation forms part of the sales contract and the goods were installed by the trader or under his responsibility. The same shall apply equally if the goods, intended to be installed by the consumer, are installed by the consumer and the incorrect installation is due to a shortcoming in the installation instructions.

of the goods shall be considered as a lack of conformity of the goods

5.   
  The trader shall be liable for
  any lack of conformity
  arising as a result of the packaging or
  resulting from the incorrect installation where the installation forms part of the sales contract and the goods were installed by the trader or under his responsibility. The same shall apply equally if the goods, intended to be installed by the consumer, are installed by the consumer and the incorrect installation is due to a shortcoming in the installation instructions.

The trader shall be liable for

arising as a result of the packaging or

Amendment 153

Amendment 153

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 26 – paragraph 1

Article 26 – paragraph 1

1.   
  As provided for in paragraphs 2 to 5,
  where the goods do not conform to the contract, the consumer is entitled to:

As provided for in paragraphs 2 to 5,

1.   Where the goods do not conform to the contract, the consumer is entitled
  either
  to:

either

| (a) | have the lack of conformity remedied by repair or replacement, |
| --- | --- |

(a)

have the lack of conformity remedied by repair or replacement,

| (a) | have the lack of conformity remedied by repair or replacement
  in accordance with paragraphs 2, 3 and 5
  ,
  or |
| --- | --- |

(a)

have the lack of conformity remedied by repair or replacement
  in accordance with paragraphs 2, 3 and 5
  ,
  or

in accordance with paragraphs 2, 3 and 5

or

| (b) | have the price reduced, |
| --- | --- |

(b)

have the price reduced,

have the price reduced,

| (b) | a reasonable reduction in price or rescission of the contract in accordance with paragraphs 4, 5 and 5a. |
| --- | --- |

(b)

a reasonable reduction in price or rescission of the contract in accordance with paragraphs 4, 5 and 5a.

a reasonable reduction in price or rescission of the contract in accordance with paragraphs 4, 5 and 5a.

| (c) | have the contract rescinded. |
| --- | --- |

(c)

(c)

have the contract rescinded.

have the contract rescinded.

Amendment 154

Amendment 154

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 26 – paragraph 2

Article 26 – paragraph 2

2.   The trader
  shall remedy the lack of conformity by either
  repair or
  replacement according to his choice
  .

shall remedy the lack of conformity by either

replacement according to his choice

2.   The
  consumer may first require the
  trader
  to
  repair
  the goods
  or
  to replace them if such a remedy is not impossible or disproportionate
  .

consumer may first require the

to

the goods

to replace them if such a remedy is not impossible or disproportionate

Amendment 155

Amendment 155

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 26 – paragraph 3

Article 26 – paragraph 3

3.   
  Where the trader has proved that remedying the lack of conformity by repair or replacement is unlawful, impossible or would cause the trader a disproportionate effort, the consumer may choose to have the price reduced or the contract rescinded. A trader’s effort is
  disproportionate if it
  imposes
  costs on
  him
  which
  , in comparison with the price reduction or the rescission of the contract, are excessive, taking into account the value of the goods if there was no lack of conformity and the significance of the lack of conformity
  .

Where the trader has proved that remedying the lack of conformity by repair or replacement is unlawful, impossible or would cause the trader a disproportionate effort, the consumer may choose to have the price reduced or the contract rescinded. A trader’s effort is

imposes

him

, in comparison with the price reduction or the rescission of the contract, are excessive, taking into account the value of the goods if there was no lack of conformity and the significance of the lack of conformity

3.   
  Either of the remedies provided for in paragraph 2 shall be deemed
  disproportionate if it
  would impose
  costs on
  the trader,
  which
  would be unreasonable by comparison with the alternative remedy (repair or replacement):

Either of the remedies provided for in paragraph 2 shall be deemed

would impose

the trader,

would be unreasonable by comparison with the alternative remedy (repair or replacement):

The consumer may only rescind the contract if the lack of conformity is not minor.

The consumer may only rescind the contract if the lack of conformity is not minor.

| (a) | in the light of what would be the value of the goods if there were no lack of conformity
  , |
| --- | --- |

(a)

(a)

in the light of what would be the value of the goods if there were no lack of conformity
  ,

in the light of what would be the value of the goods if there were no lack of conformity

| (b) | taking into account the significance of the lack of conformity, |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

taking into account the significance of the lack of conformity,

taking into account the significance of the lack of conformity,

| (c) | upon consideration of the question as to whether use could be made of other remedies (repair or replacement) without significant inconvenience for the consumer. |
| --- | --- |

(c)

(c)

upon consideration of the question as to whether use could be made of other remedies (repair or replacement) without significant inconvenience for the consumer.

upon consideration of the question as to whether use could be made of other remedies (repair or replacement) without significant inconvenience for the consumer.

Repair or replacement shall take place within a reasonable time and without significant inconvenience for the consumer.

Repair or replacement shall take place within a reasonable time and without significant inconvenience for the consumer.

Amendment 156

Amendment 156

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 26 – paragraph 4

Article 26 – paragraph 4

4.   The consumer may
  resort to any remedy available under paragraph 1,
  where one of the following situations exists:

resort to any remedy available under paragraph 1,

4.   
  Without prejudice to paragraph 5b,
  the consumer may
  insist on a reasonable reduction in price or rescission of the contract,
  where one of the following situations exists:

Without prejudice to paragraph 5b,

insist on a reasonable reduction in price or rescission of the contract,

| (a) | the trader has implicitly or explicitly refused to remedy the lack of conformity
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

the trader has implicitly or explicitly refused to remedy the lack of conformity
  ;

the trader has implicitly or explicitly refused to remedy the lack of conformity

| (a) | the consumer is entitled neither to repair nor replacement
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

the consumer is entitled neither to repair nor replacement
  ;

the consumer is entitled neither to repair nor replacement

| (aa) | the trader has refused explicitly or by his conduct to remedy the lack of conformity; |
| --- | --- |

(aa)

(aa)

the trader has refused explicitly or by his conduct to remedy the lack of conformity;

the trader has refused explicitly or by his conduct to remedy the lack of conformity;

| (b) | the trader has failed to remedy the lack of conformity within a reasonable time; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

the trader has failed to remedy the lack of conformity within a reasonable time;

| (b) | the trader has failed to remedy the lack of conformity within a reasonable time; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

the trader has failed to remedy the lack of conformity within a reasonable time;

| (c) | the trader has
  tried to remedy
  the lack of conformity, causing significant inconvenience to the consumer; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

the trader has
  tried to remedy
  the lack of conformity, causing significant inconvenience to the consumer;

tried to remedy

| (c) | the trader has
  remedied
  the lack of conformity, causing significant inconvenience to the consumer. |
| --- | --- |

(c)

the trader has
  remedied
  the lack of conformity, causing significant inconvenience to the consumer.

remedied

| (d) | the same defect has reappeared more than once within a short period of time. |
| --- | --- |

(d)

(d)

the same defect has reappeared more than once within a short period of time.

the same defect has reappeared more than once within a short period of time.

Amendment 158

Amendment 158

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 26 – paragraph 5 a (new)

Article 26 – paragraph 5 a (new)

5a.
     
  The consumer shall not be entitled to have the contract rescinded if the lack of conformity is minor.

5a.

The consumer shall not be entitled to have the contract rescinded if the lack of conformity is minor.

Amendment 159

Amendment 159

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 26 – paragraph 5 b (new)

Article 26 – paragraph 5 b (new)

5b.
     
  Member States may adopt or maintain provisions of national law giving consumers, in the event of lack of conformity, the right for a short period to terminate the contract and receive a full reimbursement or a free choice from among the remedies referred to in paragraph 1, in order to ensure a higher level of consumer protection.

5b.

Member States may adopt or maintain provisions of national law giving consumers, in the event of lack of conformity, the right for a short period to terminate the contract and receive a full reimbursement or a free choice from among the remedies referred to in paragraph 1, in order to ensure a higher level of consumer protection.

Amendment 160

Amendment 160

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 27 – paragraph 2

Article 27 – paragraph 2

2.   Without prejudice to the provisions of this Chapter, the consumer may claim damages for any loss not remedied in accordance with Article 26.

2.   
  In accordance with the provisions of applicable national law, and
  without prejudice to the provisions of this Chapter, the consumer may claim damages for any loss not remedied in accordance with Article 26.

In accordance with the provisions of applicable national law, and

Amendment 161

Amendment 161

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 27 a (new)

Article 27 a (new)

Article 27a

Article 27a

Right of recourse

Right of recourse

Where the trader, as final seller, is liable to the consumer because of a lack of conformity resulting from an act or omission by the producer, a previous seller in the same chain of contracts or any other intermediary, the trader, as final seller, may pursue remedies against the person or persons liable in the contractual chain. The person or persons liable against whom the trader, as final seller, may pursue remedies, together with the relevant actions and procedure, shall be determined by national law, in such a way as to ensure the effectiveness of that right.

Where the trader, as final seller, is liable to the consumer because of a lack of conformity resulting from an act or omission by the producer, a previous seller in the same chain of contracts or any other intermediary, the trader, as final seller, may pursue remedies against the person or persons liable in the contractual chain. The person or persons liable against whom the trader, as final seller, may pursue remedies, together with the relevant actions and procedure, shall be determined by national law, in such a way as to ensure the effectiveness of that right.

A person established as being liable within the meaning of the first paragraph shall have the burden of proving an absence of responsibility for the lack of conformity, or that the remedy made by the final seller for the consumer was not in fact required.

A person established as being liable within the meaning of the first paragraph shall have the burden of proving an absence of responsibility for the lack of conformity, or that the remedy made by the final seller for the consumer was not in fact required.

Amendment 162

Amendment 162

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 28 – paragraph 2

Article 28 – paragraph 2

2.
     
  When the trader has remedied the lack of conformity by replacement, he shall be held liable under Article 25 where the lack of conformity becomes apparent within two years as from the time the consumer or a third party indicated by the consumer has acquired the material possession of the replaced goods.

2.

When the trader has remedied the lack of conformity by replacement, he shall be held liable under Article 25 where the lack of conformity becomes apparent within two years as from the time the consumer or a third party indicated by the consumer has acquired the material possession of the replaced goods.

deleted

deleted

Amendment 163

Amendment 163

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 28 – paragraph 4

Article 28 – paragraph 4

4.
     
  In order to benefit from his rights under Article 25, the consumer shall inform the trader of the lack of conformity within two months from the date on which he detected the lack of conformity.

4.

In order to benefit from his rights under Article 25, the consumer shall inform the trader of the lack of conformity within two months from the date on which he detected the lack of conformity.

deleted

deleted

Amendment 164

Amendment 164

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 28 – paragraph 5 a (new)

Article 28 – paragraph 5 a (new)

5a.
     
  Member States may adopt or maintain provisions of national law providing for a longer liability period, a longer period for reversal of the burden of proof in the consumer’s favour or specific rules on significant lack of conformity which becomes apparent after the liability period, in order to ensure a higher level of consumer protection.

5a.

Member States may adopt or maintain provisions of national law providing for a longer liability period, a longer period for reversal of the burden of proof in the consumer’s favour or specific rules on significant lack of conformity which becomes apparent after the liability period, in order to ensure a higher level of consumer protection.

Amendment 165

Amendment 165

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 28 a (new)

Article 28 a (new)

Article 28 a

Article 28 a

Communication and contactability

Communication and contactability

The trader shall ensure that throughout the duration of a service contract, or, following the conclusion of a sales contract, until the time limit referred to in Article 28(1) for formal offers, notifications and questions by the consumer relating to rights and obligations under the service contract or sales contract has expired, he can be contacted under reasonable conditions. In particular, he shall ensure that formal offers by the consumer in respect of the contract reach him without delay and that the consumer is notified of their receipt immediately. The cost of receiving and dealing with formal offers, notifications and questions concerning the service contract or the sales contract by telephone may not be charged to the consumer; the right of the telecommunications service provider to charge for such calls shall not be affected.

The trader shall ensure that throughout the duration of a service contract, or, following the conclusion of a sales contract, until the time limit referred to in Article 28(1) for formal offers, notifications and questions by the consumer relating to rights and obligations under the service contract or sales contract has expired, he can be contacted under reasonable conditions. In particular, he shall ensure that formal offers by the consumer in respect of the contract reach him without delay and that the consumer is notified of their receipt immediately. The cost of receiving and dealing with formal offers, notifications and questions concerning the service contract or the sales contract by telephone may not be charged to the consumer; the right of the telecommunications service provider to charge for such calls shall not be affected.

Amendment 166

Amendment 166

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 29 – paragraph 2 – introductory part

Article 29 – paragraph 2 – introductory part

2.   The guarantee statement shall be drafted in plain intelligible language
  and
  be legible. It shall include the following:

and

2.   The guarantee statement shall be drafted in plain intelligible language
  ,
  be legible
  and in the same font size.
  It shall
  be written in the same language as the contract. The guarantee statement shall
  include the following:

,

and in the same font size.

be written in the same language as the contract. The guarantee statement shall

Amendment 167

Amendment 167

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 29 – paragraph 2 – points a, b and c

Article 29 – paragraph 2 – points a, b and c

| (a) | legal rights of the consumer
  , as provided for in Article
  26 and a clear statement that those rights are not affected by the commercial guarantee, |
| --- | --- |

(a)

legal rights of the consumer
  , as provided for in Article
  26 and a clear statement that those rights are not affected by the commercial guarantee,

, as provided for in Article

| (a) | legal rights of the consumer
  under Articles
  26
  and 28,
  and
  the provisions of applicable national law, as well as
  a clear statement that those rights are not affected by the commercial guarantee, |
| --- | --- |

(a)

legal rights of the consumer
  under Articles
  26
  and 28,
  and
  the provisions of applicable national law, as well as
  a clear statement that those rights are not affected by the commercial guarantee,

under Articles

and 28,

the provisions of applicable national law, as well as

| (b) | set the contents of the commercial guarantee and the conditions for making claims, notably the duration, territorial scope and the name and address of the guarantor, |
| --- | --- |

(b)

set the contents of the commercial guarantee and the conditions for making claims, notably the duration, territorial scope and the name and address of the guarantor,

| (b) | set the contents of the commercial guarantee and the conditions for making claims, notably the duration, territorial scope and the name and address of the guarantor, |
| --- | --- |

(b)

set the contents of the commercial guarantee and the conditions for making claims, notably the duration, territorial scope and the name and address of the guarantor,

| (c) | without prejudice to Articles 32 and 35 and Annex III(1)(j), set out, where applicable,
  that the commercial guarantee
  cannot
  be transferred to a subsequent buyer. |
| --- | --- |

(c)

without prejudice to Articles 32 and 35 and Annex III(1)(j), set out, where applicable,
  that the commercial guarantee
  cannot
  be transferred to a subsequent buyer.

without prejudice to Articles 32 and 35 and Annex III(1)(j), set out, where applicable,

cannot

| (c) | the information
  that the commercial guarantee
  can
  be transferred to a subsequent buyer. |
| --- | --- |

(c)

the information
  that the commercial guarantee
  can
  be transferred to a subsequent buyer.

the information

can

Amendment 168

Amendment 168

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 29 – paragraph 3

Article 29 – paragraph 3

3.   
  If the consumer so requests,
  the trader shall make the guarantee statement available in a durable medium.

If the consumer so requests,

3.   The trader shall make the guarantee statement available in a durable medium
  and, if so requested by the consumer, also on paper
  .

and, if so requested by the consumer, also on paper

Amendment 169

Amendment 169

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 30 – paragraph 1

Article 30 – paragraph 1

1.   This Chapter shall apply to contract terms drafted in advance by the trader or a third party, which the consumer
  agreed
  to
  without having
  the
  possibility
  of
  influencing their content
  , in particular where such contract
  terms are
  part of a pre-formulated standard contract.

agreed

without having

possibility

influencing their content

terms are

1.   This Chapter shall apply to contract terms drafted in advance by the trader or a third party, which
  have not been individually negotiated. A contract term shall always be regarded as not individually negotiated where it has been drafted in advance and
  the consumer
  has therefore not been able
  to
  influence
  the
  substance
  of
  the contract term
  , in particular where such contract
  term is
  part of a pre-formulated standard contract.

have not been individually negotiated. A contract term shall always be regarded as not individually negotiated where it has been drafted in advance and

has therefore not been able

influence

substance

the contract term

term is

Amendment 170

Amendment 170

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 30 – paragraph 2

Article 30 – paragraph 2

2.   The fact that
  the consumer had the possibility of influencing
  the content of certain aspects of a contract term or one specific term, shall not exclude the application of this Chapter to other contract terms which form part of the contract.

the consumer had the possibility of influencing

2.   The fact that the content of certain aspects of a contract term or one specific term
  have been individually negotiated
  , shall not exclude the application of this Chapter to other contract terms which form part of the contract.

have been individually negotiated

Amendment 171

Amendment 171

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 30 – paragraph 3

Article 30 – paragraph 3

3.   This Chapter shall not apply to contract terms reflecting
  mandatory
  statutory or
  regulatory
  provisions, which comply with
  Community
  law and the provisions or principles of international conventions to which the
  Community
  or the Member States are party.

mandatory

regulatory

Community

Community

3.   This Chapter shall not apply to contract terms reflecting statutory
  , regulatory
  or
  public policy
  provisions, which comply with
  Union
  law and the provisions or principles of international conventions to which the
  Union
  or the Member States are party.

, regulatory

public policy

Union

Union

Amendment 172

Amendment 172

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 30 a (new)

Article 30 a (new)

Article 30a

Article 30a

Degree of harmonisation

Degree of harmonisation

Unless otherwise provided, Member States shall not maintain or introduce, in their national law, provisions diverging from those laid down in this Chapter, including more or less stringent provisions to ensure a different level of consumer protection.

Unless otherwise provided, Member States shall not maintain or introduce, in their national law, provisions diverging from those laid down in this Chapter, including more or less stringent provisions to ensure a different level of consumer protection.

Amendment 173

Amendment 173

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 31 – paragraph 1

Article 31 – paragraph 1

1.   Contract terms shall be expressed in plain, intelligible language and be legible.

1.   
  All
  contract terms shall be expressed
  in a clear and comprehensible manner. If a contract term is in writing, it shall always be drafted
  in plain, intelligible language and be legible.

All

in a clear and comprehensible manner. If a contract term is in writing, it shall always be drafted

Amendment 174

Amendment 174

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 31 – paragraph 4

Article 31 – paragraph 4

4.   Member States shall refrain from imposing any
  presentational
  requirements
  as to the way
  the contract terms
  are expressed or made available to the consumer.

presentational

as to the way

are expressed or made available to the consumer.

4.   Member States shall refrain from imposing any requirements
  on
  the
  presentation of
  contract terms
  , except for presentational requirements in relation to persons with disabilities, or where the goods or services may present a particular risk to the health and safety of the consumer or a third person, or in respect of specific goods or services where there is evidence that demonstrates consumer detriment.

on

presentation of

, except for presentational requirements in relation to persons with disabilities, or where the goods or services may present a particular risk to the health and safety of the consumer or a third person, or in respect of specific goods or services where there is evidence that demonstrates consumer detriment.

Amendment 175

Amendment 175

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 32 – paragraph 2

Article 32 – paragraph 2

2.   Without prejudice to Articles 34 and 38, the unfairness of a contract term shall be assessed, taking into account the nature of the products for which the contract was concluded and by referring, at the time of the conclusion of the contract, to all the circumstances attending the conclusion and to all the other terms of the contract or of another contract on which the former is dependent
  . When assessing the fairness of a contract term, the competent national authority shall also take into account the manner in which the contract was drafted and communicated to the consumer by the trader in accordance with Article 31
  .

. When assessing the fairness of a contract term, the competent national authority shall also take into account the manner in which the contract was drafted and communicated to the consumer by the trader in accordance with Article 31

2.   Without prejudice to Articles 34 and 38, the unfairness of a contract term shall be assessed, taking into account the nature of the products for which the contract was concluded and by referring, at the time of the conclusion of the contract, to all the circumstances attending the conclusion and to all the other terms of the contract or of another contract on which the former is dependent.

Amendment 176

Amendment 176

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 32 – paragraph 2 a (new)

Article 32 – paragraph 2 a (new)

2a.
     
  When assessing the fairness of a contract term, the competent national authority shall also take into account the manner in which the contract was drafted and communicated to the consumer by the trader in accordance with Article 31(1) and (2). A term which has been supplied by the trader in breach of the duty of transparency imposed by Article 31(1) and (2) may on that ground alone be considered unfair.

2a.

When assessing the fairness of a contract term, the competent national authority shall also take into account the manner in which the contract was drafted and communicated to the consumer by the trader in accordance with Article 31(1) and (2). A term which has been supplied by the trader in breach of the duty of transparency imposed by Article 31(1) and (2) may on that ground alone be considered unfair.

Amendment 177

Amendment 177

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 32 – paragraph 3

Article 32 – paragraph 3

3.   Paragraphs
  1 and 2
  shall not apply to the assessment of the main subject matter of the contract or to the adequacy of the remuneration foreseen for the trader’s main contractual obligation, provided that the trader fully complies with Article
  31
  .

1 and 2

31

3.   Paragraphs
  1, 2, and 2a of this Article
  shall not apply to the assessment of the main subject matter of the contract or to the adequacy of the remuneration foreseen for the trader’s main contractual obligation, provided that the trader fully complies with Article
  31(1), (2) and (3)
  .

1, 2, and 2a of this Article

31(1), (2) and (3)

Amendment 178

Amendment 178

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 33

Article 33

Where the trader claims that a contract term has been individually negotiated, the burden of proof shall be incumbent on him.

Where the trader claims that a contract term has been individually negotiated, or that a contract term is compliant with the transparency requirements laid down in Article 31(1) and 31(2),
  the burden of proof shall be incumbent on him.

, or that a contract term is compliant with the transparency requirements laid down in Article 31(1) and 31(2),

Amendment 179

Amendment 179

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 34

Article 34

Member States shall ensure that contract terms, as set out in the list in Annex II, are considered unfair in all circumstances.
  That list of contract terms shall apply in all Member States and may only be amended in accordance with Articles 39(2) and 40.

That list of contract terms shall apply in all Member States and may only be amended in accordance with Articles 39(2) and 40.

1
  .   Member States shall ensure that contract terms, as set out in the list in Annex II, are considered unfair in all circumstances.

1

2.
     
  Member States may provide in their national legislation for additional contract terms considered unfair in all circumstances. Member States shall notify to the Commission the contract terms referred to in paragraph 1.

2.

Member States may provide in their national legislation for additional contract terms considered unfair in all circumstances. Member States shall notify to the Commission the contract terms referred to in paragraph 1.

The Commission shall make that information public in an easily accessible way.

The Commission shall make that information public in an easily accessible way.

Amendment 180

Amendment 180

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 35

Article 35

Member States shall ensure that contract terms, as set out in the list in point 1 of Annex III, are considered unfair, unless the trader has proved that such contract terms are fair in accordance with Article 32.
  That list of contract terms shall apply in all Member States and may only be amended in accordance with Articles 39(2) and 40.

That list of contract terms shall apply in all Member States and may only be amended in accordance with Articles 39(2) and 40.

1.
     Member States shall ensure that contract terms, as set out in the list point 1 of Annex III, are considered unfair, unless the trader has proved that such contract terms are fair in accordance with Article 32.

1.

2.
     
  Member States may provide in their national legislation for additional contract terms presumed to be unfair. Member States shall notify to the Commission the contract terms referred to in paragraph 1.

2.

Member States may provide in their national legislation for additional contract terms presumed to be unfair. Member States shall notify to the Commission the contract terms referred to in paragraph 1.

The Commission shall make that information public in an easily accessible way.

The Commission shall make that information public in an easily accessible way.

Amendment 181

Amendment 181

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 37

Article 37

Contract terms which are unfair shall not be binding on the consumer. The contract shall continue to bind the parties if it can remain in force without the unfair terms.

Contract terms which are unfair
  under this Directive
  shall not be binding on the consumer
  in accordance with national law
  . The contract shall continue to bind the parties if it can remain in force without the unfair terms.

under this Directive

in accordance with national law

Amendment 182

Amendment 182

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 38 – paragraph 1

Article 38 – paragraph 1

1.   Member States shall ensure that, in the interests of consumers and competitors, adequate and effective means exist to prevent the
  continued
  use of unfair terms in contracts concluded with consumers by traders.

continued

1.   Member States shall ensure that, in the interests of consumers and competitors, adequate and effective means exist to prevent the use of unfair terms in contracts concluded with consumers by traders.

Amendment 184

Amendment 184

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 39

Article 39

Article 39

Article 39

Review of the terms in Annexes 2 and 3

Review of the terms in Annexes 2 and 3

1.
     
  Member States shall notify to the Commission the terms which have been found unfair by the competent national authorities and which they deem to be relevant for the purpose of amending this Directive as provided for by paragraph 2.

1.

Member States shall notify to the Commission the terms which have been found unfair by the competent national authorities and which they deem to be relevant for the purpose of amending this Directive as provided for by paragraph 2.

2.
     
  In the light of the notifications received under paragraph 1, the Commission shall amend Annex II and III. Those measures designed to amend non essential elements of this Directive shall be adopted in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny referred to in Article 40(2).

2.

In the light of the notifications received under paragraph 1, the Commission shall amend Annex II and III. Those measures designed to amend non essential elements of this Directive shall be adopted in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny referred to in Article 40(2).

deleted

deleted

Amendment 185

Amendment 185

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 40

Article 40

Article 40

Article 40

The Committee

The Committee

1.
     
  The Commission shall be assisted by the Committee on unfair terms in consumer contracts (hereinafter referred to as ‘the Committee’).

1.

The Commission shall be assisted by the Committee on unfair terms in consumer contracts (hereinafter referred to as ‘the Committee’).

2.
     
  Where reference is made to this paragraph, Article 5a(1) to (4), and Article 7 of Decision 1999/468/EC1 shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof.

2.

Where reference is made to this paragraph, Article 5a(1) to (4), and Article 7 of Decision 1999/468/EC1

deleted

deleted

Amendment 186

Amendment 186

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 41 – paragraph 1

Article 41 – paragraph 1

1.   Member States shall ensure that adequate and effective means exist to ensure compliance with this Directive.

1.   Member States
  and the Commission
  shall ensure that adequate and effective means exist to ensure compliance with
  consumer rights as provided for in
  this Directive.

and the Commission

consumer rights as provided for in

Amendment 187

Amendment 187

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 44

Article 44

Member States shall take appropriate measures to inform consumers of the national provisions transposing this Directive and shall, where appropriate, encourage traders and code owners to inform consumers of their codes of conduct.

Member States
  and the Commission
  shall take appropriate measures to inform consumers
  and traders, especially via information and communication technology tools and public media,
  of the national provisions transposing this Directive and shall, where appropriate, encourage traders and code owners to inform consumers of their codes of conduct.

and the Commission

and traders, especially via information and communication technology tools and public media,

Amendment 188

Amendment 188

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 45

Article 45

The consumer shall be exempted from the provision of any consideration in cases of unsolicited supply of
  a product as
  prohibited
  by
  Article 5(5) and point 29 of Annex I of Directive 2005/29/EC. The absence of a response from the consumer following such an unsolicited supply shall not constitute consent.

a product as

by

The consumer shall be exempted from the provision of any consideration in cases of unsolicited supply of
  goods or provision of a service
  prohibited
  pursuant to
  Article 5(5) and point 29 of Annex I of Directive 2005/29/EC.
  In such cases,
  the absence of a response from the consumer following such an unsolicited supply shall not constitute consent.

goods or provision of a service

pursuant to

In such cases,

Amendment 189

Amendment 189

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 46 – paragraph 2

Article 46 – paragraph 2

2.
     
  Member States shall communicate to the Commission the text of the main provisions of national law which they adopt in the field covered by this Directive.

2.

Member States shall communicate to the Commission the text of the main provisions of national law which they adopt in the field covered by this Directive.

deleted

deleted

Amendment 190

Amendment 190

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 46 a (new)

Article 46 a (new)

Article 46a

Article 46a

Reporting and mutual evaluation by Member States

Reporting and mutual evaluation by Member States

1.
     
  By [the end of the transposition period], and every three years thereafter, Member States shall draw up a report containing the following information:

1.

By [the end of the transposition period], and every three years thereafter, Member States shall draw up a report containing the following information:

| (a) | the text of any additional pre-contractual information requirements which Member States adopt or maintain pursuant to Article 9(5) and (6); |
| --- | --- |

(a)

(a)

the text of any additional pre-contractual information requirements which Member States adopt or maintain pursuant to Article 9(5) and (6);

the text of any additional pre-contractual information requirements which Member States adopt or maintain pursuant to Article 9(5) and (6);

| (b) | the text of any diverging provisions of national law which Member States adopt or maintain pursuant to Article 12(4) and Article 13(2); |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

the text of any diverging provisions of national law which Member States adopt or maintain pursuant to Article 12(4) and Article 13(2);

the text of any diverging provisions of national law which Member States adopt or maintain pursuant to Article 12(4) and Article 13(2);

| (c) | the text of any diverging provisions of national law which Member States adopt or maintain pursuant to Article 22(2a); |
| --- | --- |

(c)

(c)

the text of any diverging provisions of national law which Member States adopt or maintain pursuant to Article 22(2a);

the text of any diverging provisions of national law which Member States adopt or maintain pursuant to Article 22(2a);

| (d) | the text of any diverging provisions of national law which Member States adopt or maintain pursuant to Article 26(5b) and Article 28(5a); |
| --- | --- |

(d)

(d)

the text of any diverging provisions of national law which Member States adopt or maintain pursuant to Article 26(5b) and Article 28(5a);

the text of any diverging provisions of national law which Member States adopt or maintain pursuant to Article 26(5b) and Article 28(5a);

| (e) | the text of any additional contract terms designated by Member States, pursuant to Article 34(1a), as unfair in all circumstances; |
| --- | --- |

(e)

(e)

the text of any additional contract terms designated by Member States, pursuant to Article 34(1a), as unfair in all circumstances;

the text of any additional contract terms designated by Member States, pursuant to Article 34(1a), as unfair in all circumstances;

| (f) | the text of any additional contract terms designated by Member States, pursuant to Article 35(1a), as terms presumed to be unfair; |
| --- | --- |

(f)

(f)

the text of any additional contract terms designated by Member States, pursuant to Article 35(1a), as terms presumed to be unfair;

the text of any additional contract terms designated by Member States, pursuant to Article 35(1a), as terms presumed to be unfair;

| (g) | the text of any decisions of fundamental importance – together with the grounds for them – taken by Member States’ courts, arbitration bodies or competent administrative authorities in the field covered by this Directive. |
| --- | --- |

(g)

(g)

the text of any decisions of fundamental importance – together with the grounds for them – taken by Member States’ courts, arbitration bodies or competent administrative authorities in the field covered by this Directive.

the text of any decisions of fundamental importance – together with the grounds for them – taken by Member States’ courts, arbitration bodies or competent administrative authorities in the field covered by this Directive.

2.
     
  The report referred to in paragraph 1 shall be submitted to the Commission. With regard to the information referred to in points (a) to (e) of paragraph 1, Member States shall explain why diverging provisions of national law are appropriate and proportionate with a view to attaining the purpose of the Directive.

2.

The report referred to in paragraph 1 shall be submitted to the Commission. With regard to the information referred to in points (a) to (e) of paragraph 1, Member States shall explain why diverging provisions of national law are appropriate and proportionate with a view to attaining the purpose of the Directive.

3.
     
  The Commission shall ensure that the information referred to in points (d) and (e) of paragraph 1 is easily accessible to consumers and traders, inter alia on a dedicated website set up and maintained by the Commission.

3.

The Commission shall ensure that the information referred to in points (d) and (e) of paragraph 1 is easily accessible to consumers and traders, inter alia on a dedicated website set up and maintained by the Commission.

4.
     
  The Commission shall forward the reports provided for in paragraph 1 to the other Member States and the European Parliament, which shall submit their observations on each of the reports within six months of receipt. Within the same period, the Commission shall consult stakeholders on those reports.

4.

The Commission shall forward the reports provided for in paragraph 1 to the other Member States and the European Parliament, which shall submit their observations on each of the reports within six months of receipt. Within the same period, the Commission shall consult stakeholders on those reports.

Amendment 191

Amendment 191

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 46 b (new)

Article 46 b (new)

Article 46b

Article 46b

Reporting by consumer protection agents

Reporting by consumer protection agents

Persons or organisations having a legitimate interest under national law in protecting consumers, within the meaning of Article 38(2), shall notify the Commission of the conclusions they have reached from the assessment of the application and impact of this Directive on consumer rights and the functioning of the internal market.

Persons or organisations having a legitimate interest under national law in protecting consumers, within the meaning of Article 38(2), shall notify the Commission of the conclusions they have reached from the assessment of the application and impact of this Directive on consumer rights and the functioning of the internal market.

Amendment 192

Amendment 192

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 46 c (new)

Article 46 c (new)

Article 46c

Article 46c

Reporting by the Commission and review

Reporting by the Commission and review

By [one year after transposition period], and every three years thereafter, the Commission shall submit a report on the application of this Directive to the European Parliament and the Council, taking account of the information gathered pursuant to Article 46a(4) and Article 46b. The report shall be accompanied, where necessary, by legislative proposals to adapt this Directive to developments in the field of consumer rights.

By [one year after transposition period], and every three years thereafter, the Commission shall submit a report on the application of this Directive to the European Parliament and the Council, taking account of the information gathered pursuant to Article 46a(4) and Article 46b. The report shall be accompanied, where necessary, by legislative proposals to adapt this Directive to developments in the field of consumer rights.

Amendment 193

Amendment 193

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article -47 (new)

Article -47 (new)

Directive 2002/65/EC

Directive 2002/65/EC

Article -47

Article -47

Amendment of Directive 2002/65/EC

Amendment of Directive 2002/65/EC

Point (a) of Article 2 of Directive 2002/65/EC shall be replaced by the following:

Point (a) of Article 2 of Directive 2002/65/EC shall be replaced by the following:

| ‘(a) | “distance contract” means any contract for the supply of a good or the provision of a service concluded between a trader and a consumer under an organised distance sales or service-provision scheme where the trader and the consumer are not simultaneously physically present for the conclusion of the contract, but, rather, make exclusive use of one or more means of distance communication;.’. |
| --- | --- |

‘(a)

‘(a)

“distance contract” means any contract for the supply of a good or the provision of a service concluded between a trader and a consumer under an organised distance sales or service-provision scheme where the trader and the consumer are not simultaneously physically present for the conclusion of the contract, but, rather, make exclusive use of one or more means of distance communication;.’.

“distance contract” means any contract for the supply of a good or the provision of a service concluded between a trader and a consumer under an organised distance sales or service-provision scheme where the trader and the consumer are not simultaneously physically present for the conclusion of the contract, but, rather, make exclusive use of one or more means of distance communication;.’.

Amendment 194

Amendment 194

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 47 – paragraph 1

Article 47 – paragraph 1

Directives 85/577/EEC 93/13/EEC and 97/7/EC and Directive 1999/44/EC, as amended by the Directives listed in Annex IV, are repealed.

Directives 85/577/EEC 93/13/EEC and 97/7/EC and Directive 1999/44/EC, as amended by the Directives listed in Annex IV, are repealed
  as of [date of transposition]
  .

as of [date of transposition]

Amendment 195

Amendment 195

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 48

Article 48

Article 48

Article 48

Review

Review

The Commission shall review this Directive and report to the European Parliament and the Council no later than [insert same date as in the second subparagraph of Article 46(1) +five years].

The Commission shall review this Directive and report to the European Parliament and the Council no later than [insert same date as in the second subparagraph of Article 46(1) +five years].

If necessary, it shall make proposals to adapt it to developments in the area. The Commission may request information from the Member States.

If necessary, it shall make proposals to adapt it to developments in the area. The Commission may request information from the Member States.

deleted

deleted

Amendment 196

Amendment 196

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Article 48 a (new)

Article 48 a (new)

Article 48a

Article 48a

The Commission shall consider adopting a proposal for a regulation on distance and off-premises contracts, from which transport and health services will be exempted.

The Commission shall consider adopting a proposal for a regulation on distance and off-premises contracts, from which transport and health services will be exempted.

Amendment 197

Amendment 197

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Annex I – part A

Annex I – part A

1.

| 1. | The name, geographical address and the email address of the trader to whom the withdrawal form must be sent. |
| --- | --- |

1.

The name, geographical address and the email address of the trader to whom the withdrawal form must be sent.

Right of withdrawal

Right of withdrawal

| 2. | A statement that the consumer has a right to withdraw from the contract and that this right can be exercised by sending the withdrawal form below on a durable medium to the trader referred to in paragraph 1: |
| --- | --- |

2.

2.

A statement that the consumer has a right to withdraw from the contract and that this right can be exercised by sending the withdrawal form below on a durable medium to the trader referred to in paragraph 1:

You may withdraw on a durable medium from this contract within a period of 14 days without giving any reason [or – if the goods are delivered to you before the expiry of this period – by returning the goods].

You may withdraw on a durable medium from this contract within a period of 14 days without giving any reason [or – if the goods are delivered to you before the expiry of this period – by returning the goods].

| (a) | for off-premises contracts, within a period of fourteen days following his signature of the order form; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

(a)

for off-premises contracts, within a period of fourteen days following his signature of the order form;

for off-premises contracts, within a period of fourteen days following his signature of the order form;

The period for withdrawal shall begin [on receipt of the goods ordered] (1). The day [on which the goods are received] (2) shall not be counted as part of the period for withdrawal. If the last day of the period for withdrawal falls on a public holiday, a Saturday or a Sunday, the period shall end on the first working day thereafter.

The period for withdrawal shall begin [on receipt of the goods ordered] (1). The day [on which the goods are received] (2) shall not be counted as part of the period for withdrawal. If the last day of the period for withdrawal falls on a public holiday, a Saturday or a Sunday, the period shall end on the first working day thereafter.

The period for withdrawal shall be deemed to have been observed if your notice of withdrawal is sent, or the goods are sent, before its expiry. The sending of either the notice of withdrawal or the goods before the expiry of the withdrawal period must be provable (for example in the form of a postal receipt).

The period for withdrawal shall be deemed to have been observed if your notice of withdrawal is sent, or the goods are sent, before its expiry. The sending of either the notice of withdrawal or the goods before the expiry of the withdrawal period must be provable (for example in the form of a postal receipt).

| (b) | for distance sales contracts, within a period of fourteen days following the material possession of the goods by the consumer or a third party, other than the carrier and indicated by the consumer; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

for distance sales contracts, within a period of fourteen days following the material possession of the goods by the consumer or a third party, other than the carrier and indicated by the consumer;

for distance sales contracts, within a period of fourteen days following the material possession of the goods by the consumer or a third party, other than the carrier and indicated by the consumer;

Notice of withdrawal should be sent on a durable medium (for example in the form of a posted letter) (3) to: (4). The consumer may use the form below, but it is not obligatory.

Notice of withdrawal should be sent on a durable medium (for example in the form of a posted letter) (3) to: (4). The consumer may use the form below, but it is not obligatory.

| (c) | for distance service contracts: |
| --- | --- |

(c)

(c)

for distance service contracts:

for distance service contracts:

Effects of withdrawal

Effects of withdrawal

| — | within a period of fourteen days following the conclusion of the contract, where the consumer has not given his prior express consent for the performance of the contract to begin before the end of this fourteen day period; |
| --- | --- |

—

within a period of fourteen days following the conclusion of the contract, where the consumer has not given his prior express consent for the performance of the contract to begin before the end of this fourteen day period;

within a period of fourteen days following the conclusion of the contract, where the consumer has not given his prior express consent for the performance of the contract to begin before the end of this fourteen day period;

For withdrawal to be valid you must send the goods back, at [our expense](5), within a period of 14 days of sending your notice of withdrawal. The period for reimbursement shall begin when we receive your notice of withdrawal or the goods. The day on which we receive the notice of withdrawal shall not be counted as part of the period for reimbursement. If the last day of this period falls on a public holiday, a Saturday or a Sunday, the period shall end on the first working day thereafter.

For withdrawal to be valid you must send the goods back, at [our expense](5), within a period of 14 days of sending your notice of withdrawal. The period for reimbursement shall begin when we receive your notice of withdrawal or the goods. The day on which we receive the notice of withdrawal shall not be counted as part of the period for reimbursement. If the last day of this period falls on a public holiday, a Saturday or a Sunday, the period shall end on the first working day thereafter.

| — | within a period ending when the performance of the contract begins, where the consumer has given his prior express consent for the performance of the contract to begin before the end of the fourteen day period. |
| --- | --- |

—

within a period ending when the performance of the contract begins, where the consumer has given his prior express consent for the performance of the contract to begin before the end of the fourteen day period.

within a period ending when the performance of the contract begins, where the consumer has given his prior express consent for the performance of the contract to begin before the end of the fourteen day period.

If you are unable to return the goods in their original condition, you shall be liable for any diminished value of the goods. This provision shall apply only if the deterioration in value is attributable to the goods having been handled in a manner other than that necessary for ascertaining their nature and how they function. You can prevent deterioration by refraining from using the goods as you would your own property and by avoiding any form of handling liable to reduce their value.

If you are unable to return the goods in their original condition, you shall be liable for any diminished value of the goods. This provision shall apply only if the deterioration in value is attributable to the goods having been handled in a manner other than that necessary for ascertaining their nature and how they function. You can prevent deterioration by refraining from using the goods as you would your own property and by avoiding any form of handling liable to reduce their value.

| 3. | For all sales contracts, a statement informing the consumer about the time-limits and modalities to send back the goods to the trader and the conditions for the reimbursement in accordance with Articles 16 and 17(2). |
| --- | --- |

3.

3.

For all sales contracts, a statement informing the consumer about the time-limits and modalities to send back the goods to the trader and the conditions for the reimbursement in accordance with Articles 16 and 17(2).

In the case of valid withdrawal, we must reimburse within a period of 14 days any payment you have made to us. The period for reimbursement shall begin when we receive your notice of withdrawal. The day on which we receive the notice of withdrawal shall not be counted as part of the period for reimbursement. If the last day of this period falls on a public holiday, a Saturday or a Sunday, the period shall end on the first working day thereafter.

In the case of valid withdrawal, we must reimburse within a period of 14 days any payment you have made to us. The period for reimbursement shall begin when we receive your notice of withdrawal. The day on which we receive the notice of withdrawal shall not be counted as part of the period for reimbursement. If the last day of this period falls on a public holiday, a Saturday or a Sunday, the period shall end on the first working day thereafter.

| 4. | For distance contracts concluded on the Internet, a statement that the consumer can electronically fill in and submit the standard withdrawal form on the trader’s website and that he will receive an acknowledgement of receipt of such a withdrawal from the trader by email without delay. |
| --- | --- |

4.

4.

For distance contracts concluded on the Internet, a statement that the consumer can electronically fill in and submit the standard withdrawal form on the trader’s website and that he will receive an acknowledgement of receipt of such a withdrawal from the trader by email without delay.

We may make reimbursement subject to the condition that we have received the returned goods.

We may make reimbursement subject to the condition that we have received the returned goods.

| 5. | A statement that the consumer can use the withdrawal form set out in Part B. |
| --- | --- |

5.

5.

A statement that the consumer can use the withdrawal form set out in Part B.

Advice on alternative wording:

Advice on alternative wording:

| (1) | In the following specific cases, the text in parentheses should read as indicated: |
| --- | --- |

(1)

(1)

In the following specific cases, the text in parentheses should read as indicated:

In the following specific cases, the text in parentheses should read as indicated:

in the case of distance or off-premises contracts for the supply of services: ‘from the day of the conclusion of the contract or on the day on which you received a copy of the signed contract on a durable medium if this is not the day of conclusion of the contract’.

in the case of distance or off-premises contracts for the supply of services: ‘from the day of the conclusion of the contract or on the day on which you received a copy of the signed contract on a durable medium if this is not the day of conclusion of the contract’.

| (2) | In the following specific cases, the text in parentheses should read as indicated: |
| --- | --- |

(2)

(2)

In the following specific cases, the text in parentheses should read as indicated:

In the following specific cases, the text in parentheses should read as indicated:

in the case of distance or off-premises contracts for the supply of services: ‘the conclusion of the contract or on the day on which you received a copy of the signed contract on a durable medium, if this is not the day of conclusion of the contract’.

in the case of distance or off-premises contracts for the supply of services: ‘the conclusion of the contract or on the day on which you received a copy of the signed contract on a durable medium, if this is not the day of conclusion of the contract’.

| (3) | In the case of distance contracts, additional text should be inserted as follows: |
| --- | --- |

(3)

(3)

In the case of distance contracts, additional text should be inserted as follows:

In the case of distance contracts, additional text should be inserted as follows:

| (a) | if the trader allows the consumer to withdraw from the contract by e-mail: ‘or by e-mail’; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

(a)

if the trader allows the consumer to withdraw from the contract by e-mail: ‘or by e-mail’;

if the trader allows the consumer to withdraw from the contract by e-mail: ‘or by e-mail’;

| (b) | if the trader allows the consumer to fill in a model form electronically on a website: ‘or via our website’. |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

if the trader allows the consumer to fill in a model form electronically on a website: ‘or via our website’.

if the trader allows the consumer to fill in a model form electronically on a website: ‘or via our website’.

| (4) | To be inserted: the trader’s name and business address. In the case of distance contracts, the following must also be indicated: the e-mail and/or web address of the trader which the consumer can use to withdraw from the contract. |
| --- | --- |

(4)

(4)

To be inserted: the trader’s name and business address. In the case of distance contracts, the following must also be indicated: the e-mail and/or web address of the trader which the consumer can use to withdraw from the contract.

To be inserted: the trader’s name and business address. In the case of distance contracts, the following must also be indicated: the e-mail and/or web address of the trader which the consumer can use to withdraw from the contract.

| (5) | If the price of the goods to be returned is not more than EUR 40, the text in parentheses should read as follows: ‘at your own expense’. |
| --- | --- |

(5)

(5)

If the price of the goods to be returned is not more than EUR 40, the text in parentheses should read as follows: ‘at your own expense’.

If the price of the goods to be returned is not more than EUR 40, the text in parentheses should read as follows: ‘at your own expense’.

Amendment 198

Amendment 198

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Annex I – part B

Annex I – part B

(complete and return this form only if you wish to withdraw from the contract)

(complete and return this form only if you wish to withdraw from the contract)

To:

To:
  (trader’s name, business address and, where appropriate, e-mail address)(*)

(trader’s name, business address and, where appropriate, e-mail address)(*)

I/We
  *
  hereby give notice that I/We
  *
  withdraw from my/our
  *
  contract of sale of the following goods*/provision of the following service
  *

*

*

*

*

*

I/We** hereby give notice that I/We** withdraw from my/our** contract of sale of the following goods**/provision of the following service**

**

**

**

**

**

Ordered on
  */received on*

*/received on*

Ordered on
  (***):

(***):

Name
  of consumer(s)

Name

Name(s)
  of consumer(s)
  (***):

Name(s)

(***):

Address
  of consumer(s)

Address

Address(es)
  of consumer(s)
  (***):

Address(es)

(***):

Signature of consumer(s) (
  only if
  this
  form
  is notified in writing)

Signature of consumer(s) (

this

is notified in writing)

Consumer(s)’ signature(s) (required
  only if
  the
  form
  is sent on paper) (***):

Consumer(s)’ signature(s) (required

the

is sent on paper) (***):

Date

Date
  (***):

(***):

| * | Delete as appropriate. |
| --- | --- |

*

*

Delete as appropriate.

| (*) | To be filled in by the trader before providing the form to the consumer |
| --- | --- |

(*)

(*)

To be filled in by the trader before providing the form to the consumer

| (**) | Delete where non-applicable. |
| --- | --- |

(**)

(**)

Delete where non-applicable.

| (***) | To be filled in by the consumer(s). |
| --- | --- |

(***)

(***)

To be filled in by the consumer(s).

Amendment 199

Amendment 199

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Annex II – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)

Annex II – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)

| (aa) | excluding or limiting the liability of the trader for damage on the property of the consumer caused deliberately or as a result of gross negligence through an act or omission by the trader; |
| --- | --- |

(aa)

(aa)

excluding or limiting the liability of the trader for damage on the property of the consumer caused deliberately or as a result of gross negligence through an act or omission by the trader;

excluding or limiting the liability of the trader for damage on the property of the consumer caused deliberately or as a result of gross negligence through an act or omission by the trader;

Amendment 201

Amendment 201

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Annex II – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)

Annex II – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)

| (ca) | conferring exclusive jurisdiction for all disputes arising under the contract to the place where the trader is domiciled unless the chosen court is also the court for the place where the consumer is domiciled; |
| --- | --- |

(ca)

(ca)

conferring exclusive jurisdiction for all disputes arising under the contract to the place where the trader is domiciled unless the chosen court is also the court for the place where the consumer is domiciled;

conferring exclusive jurisdiction for all disputes arising under the contract to the place where the trader is domiciled unless the chosen court is also the court for the place where the consumer is domiciled;

Amendment 202

Amendment 202

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Annex III – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)

Annex III – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)

| (aa) | makes binding on the consumer an obligation which is subject to a condition the fulfilment of which depends solely on the intention of the trader; |
| --- | --- |

(aa)

(aa)

makes binding on the consumer an obligation which is subject to a condition the fulfilment of which depends solely on the intention of the trader;

makes binding on the consumer an obligation which is subject to a condition the fulfilment of which depends solely on the intention of the trader;

Amendment 203

Amendment 203

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Annex III – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)

Annex III – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)

| (ca) | requiring a consumer to purchase ancillary goods or services not advertised in the price of the main contract; |
| --- | --- |

(ca)

(ca)

requiring a consumer to purchase ancillary goods or services not advertised in the price of the main contract;

requiring a consumer to purchase ancillary goods or services not advertised in the price of the main contract;

Amendment 204

Amendment 204

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Annex III – paragraph 1 – point c b (new)

Annex III – paragraph 1 – point c b (new)

| (cb) | applying contingent charges, such as penalties for breaching the contract terms, that are clearly disproportionate to the costs incurred by the trader due to the breach of terms; |
| --- | --- |

(cb)

(cb)

applying contingent charges, such as penalties for breaching the contract terms, that are clearly disproportionate to the costs incurred by the trader due to the breach of terms;

applying contingent charges, such as penalties for breaching the contract terms, that are clearly disproportionate to the costs incurred by the trader due to the breach of terms;

Amendment 205

Amendment 205

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Annex III – paragraph 1 – point d a (new)

Annex III – paragraph 1 – point d a (new)

| (da) | excluding or hindering the consumer’s right to instruct and authorise a third party to conclude a contract between the consumer and the trader and/or to take steps which are meant to lead to, or facilitate, the conclusion of a contract between the consumer and the trader. |
| --- | --- |

(da)

(da)

excluding or hindering the consumer’s right to instruct and authorise a third party to conclude a contract between the consumer and the trader and/or to take steps which are meant to lead to, or facilitate, the conclusion of a contract between the consumer and the trader.

excluding or hindering the consumer’s right to instruct and authorise a third party to conclude a contract between the consumer and the trader and/or to take steps which are meant to lead to, or facilitate, the conclusion of a contract between the consumer and the trader.

Amendment 206

Amendment 206

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Annex III – paragraph 1 – point e

Annex III – paragraph 1 – point e

| (e) | enabling the trader to terminate
  an open-ended contract
  without reasonable notice except where
  the consumer has committed a
  serious
  breach of contract
  ; |
| --- | --- |

(e)

enabling the trader to terminate
  an open-ended contract
  without reasonable notice except where
  the consumer has committed a
  serious
  breach of contract
  ;

an open-ended contract

the consumer has committed a

breach of contract

| (e) | enabling the trader to terminate
  a contract of indeterminate duration
  without reasonable notice
  ,
  except where
  there are
  serious
  grounds for doing so
  ;
  this does not affect terms in financial services contracts where there is a valid reason, provided the supplier is required to inform the other contracting party thereof immediately; |
| --- | --- |

(e)

enabling the trader to terminate
  a contract of indeterminate duration
  without reasonable notice
  ,
  except where
  there are
  serious
  grounds for doing so
  ;
  this does not affect terms in financial services contracts where there is a valid reason, provided the supplier is required to inform the other contracting party thereof immediately;

a contract of indeterminate duration

,

there are

grounds for doing so

this does not affect terms in financial services contracts where there is a valid reason, provided the supplier is required to inform the other contracting party thereof immediately;

Amendment 207

Amendment 207

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Annex III – paragraph 1 – point g

Annex III – paragraph 1 – point g

| (g) | allowing the trader to increase the price agreed with the consumer when the contract was concluded without giving the consumer the right to terminate the contract; |
| --- | --- |

(g)

allowing the trader to increase the price agreed with the consumer when the contract was concluded without giving the consumer the right to terminate the contract;

| (g) | providing that the price of goods or other assets is to be determined at the time of delivery or supply or
  allowing the trader to increase the price agreed with the consumer when the contract was concluded without giving the consumer the right to terminate the contract
  if the increased price is too high in relation to the price agreed at the conclusion of the contract
  ;
  this does not affect price-indexation clauses, where lawful, provided that the method by which prices vary is explicitly described; |
| --- | --- |

(g)

providing that the price of goods or other assets is to be determined at the time of delivery or supply or
  allowing the trader to increase the price agreed with the consumer when the contract was concluded without giving the consumer the right to terminate the contract
  if the increased price is too high in relation to the price agreed at the conclusion of the contract
  ;
  this does not affect price-indexation clauses, where lawful, provided that the method by which prices vary is explicitly described;

providing that the price of goods or other assets is to be determined at the time of delivery or supply or

if the increased price is too high in relation to the price agreed at the conclusion of the contract

this does not affect price-indexation clauses, where lawful, provided that the method by which prices vary is explicitly described;

Amendment 208

Amendment 208

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Annex III – paragraph 1 – point k

Annex III – paragraph 1 – point k

| (k) | enabling the trader to unilaterally alter the terms of the contract including the characteristics of the product or service; |
| --- | --- |

(k)

enabling the trader to unilaterally alter the terms of the contract including the characteristics of the product or service;

| (k) | enabling the trader to unilaterally alter the terms of the contract including the characteristics of the product or service
  without a valid reason which is specified in the contract
  ;
  this does not affect terms under which a supplier of financial services reserves the right to change the rate of interest to be paid by, or to, the consumer, or the amount of other charges for financial services without notice where there is a valid reason, provided that the supplier is required to inform the consumer at the earliest opportunity and that the consumer is free to terminate the contractual relationship with immediate effect; neither does it affect terms under which a trader reserves the right to alter unilaterally the conditions of a contract of indeterminate duration, provided that the trader is required to inform the consumer with reasonable notice, and that the consumer is free to terminate the contractual relationship; |
| --- | --- |

(k)

enabling the trader to unilaterally alter the terms of the contract including the characteristics of the product or service
  without a valid reason which is specified in the contract
  ;
  this does not affect terms under which a supplier of financial services reserves the right to change the rate of interest to be paid by, or to, the consumer, or the amount of other charges for financial services without notice where there is a valid reason, provided that the supplier is required to inform the consumer at the earliest opportunity and that the consumer is free to terminate the contractual relationship with immediate effect; neither does it affect terms under which a trader reserves the right to alter unilaterally the conditions of a contract of indeterminate duration, provided that the trader is required to inform the consumer with reasonable notice, and that the consumer is free to terminate the contractual relationship;

without a valid reason which is specified in the contract

this does not affect terms under which a supplier of financial services reserves the right to change the rate of interest to be paid by, or to, the consumer, or the amount of other charges for financial services without notice where there is a valid reason, provided that the supplier is required to inform the consumer at the earliest opportunity and that the consumer is free to terminate the contractual relationship with immediate effect; neither does it affect terms under which a trader reserves the right to alter unilaterally the conditions of a contract of indeterminate duration, provided that the trader is required to inform the consumer with reasonable notice, and that the consumer is free to terminate the contractual relationship;

Amendment 209

Amendment 209

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Annex III – paragraph 1 – point l a (new)

Annex III – paragraph 1 – point l a (new)

| (la) | allowing a trader, where what has been ordered is unavailable, to supply an equivalent without having expressly informed the consumer of this possibility and of the fact that the trader must bear the cost of returning what the consumer has received under the contract if the consumer exercises a right to withdraw. |
| --- | --- |

(la)

(la)

allowing a trader, where what has been ordered is unavailable, to supply an equivalent without having expressly informed the consumer of this possibility and of the fact that the trader must bear the cost of returning what the consumer has received under the contract if the consumer exercises a right to withdraw.

allowing a trader, where what has been ordered is unavailable, to supply an equivalent without having expressly informed the consumer of this possibility and of the fact that the trader must bear the cost of returning what the consumer has received under the contract if the consumer exercises a right to withdraw.

Amendment 210

Amendment 210

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Annex III – paragraph 2

Annex III – paragraph 2

| 2. | Point 1(e) shall not apply to terms by which a supplier of financial service reserves the right to terminate unilaterally an open-ended contract without notice, provided that the supplier is required to inform the other contracting party or parties thereof immediately. |
| --- | --- |

2.

2.

Point 1(e) shall not apply to terms by which a supplier of financial service reserves the right to terminate unilaterally an open-ended contract without notice, provided that the supplier is required to inform the other contracting party or parties thereof immediately.

deleted

deleted

Amendment 211

Amendment 211

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Annex III – paragraph 3 – point c a (new)

Annex III – paragraph 3 – point c a (new)

| (ca) | package travel contracts regulated by Directive e 90/314/EEC. |
| --- | --- |

(ca)

(ca)

package travel contracts regulated by Directive e 90/314/EEC.

package travel contracts regulated by Directive e 90/314/EEC.

Amendment 212

Amendment 212

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Annex III – paragraph 4 – introductory part

Annex III – paragraph 4 – introductory part

| 4. | Point 1(k) shall not apply to |
| --- | --- |

4.

Point 1(k) shall not apply to

| 4. | Point 1(
  e), (g) and
  (k) shall not apply to |
| --- | --- |

4.

Point 1(
  e), (g) and
  (k) shall not apply to

e), (g) and

Amendment 213

Amendment 213

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Annex III – paragraph 4 – point a

Annex III – paragraph 4 – point a

| (a) | terms under which a supplier of financial services reserves the right to alter the rate of interest payable by the consumer or due to the latter, or the amount of other charges for financial services without notice where there is a valid reason, provided that the supplier is required to inform the other contracting party or parties thereof at the earliest opportunity and that the latter are free to dissolve the contract immediately; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

(a)

terms under which a supplier of financial services reserves the right to alter the rate of interest payable by the consumer or due to the latter, or the amount of other charges for financial services without notice where there is a valid reason, provided that the supplier is required to inform the other contracting party or parties thereof at the earliest opportunity and that the latter are free to dissolve the contract immediately;

terms under which a supplier of financial services reserves the right to alter the rate of interest payable by the consumer or due to the latter, or the amount of other charges for financial services without notice where there is a valid reason, provided that the supplier is required to inform the other contracting party or parties thereof at the earliest opportunity and that the latter are free to dissolve the contract immediately;

deleted

deleted

Amendment 214

Amendment 214

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Annex III – paragraph 4 – point b

Annex III – paragraph 4 – point b

| (b) | transactions in transferable securities, financial instruments and other products or services where the price is linked to fluctuations in a stock exchange quotation or index or a financial market rate that the trader does not control; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

(b)

transactions in transferable securities, financial instruments and other products or services where the price is linked to fluctuations in a stock exchange quotation or index or a financial market rate that the trader does not control;

transactions in transferable securities, financial instruments and other products or services where the price is linked to fluctuations in a stock exchange quotation or index or a financial market rate that the trader does not control;

deleted

deleted

Amendment 215

Amendment 215

Proposal for a directive

Proposal for a directive

Annex III – paragraph 4 – point d

Annex III – paragraph 4 – point d

| (d) | terms under which the trader reserves the right to alter unilaterally the conditions of an open-ended contract, provided that he is required to inform the consumer with reasonable notice and that the consumer is free to terminate the contract. |
| --- | --- |

(d)

(d)

terms under which the trader reserves the right to alter unilaterally the conditions of an open-ended contract, provided that he is required to inform the consumer with reasonable notice and that the consumer is free to terminate the contract.

terms under which the trader reserves the right to alter unilaterally the conditions of an open-ended contract, provided that he is required to inform the consumer with reasonable notice and that the consumer is free to terminate the contract.

deleted

deleted

---

(1)  The matter was then referred back to committee pursuant to Rule 57(2), second subparagraph (A7-0038/2011).

1

(2)  

  OJ L 271, 9.10.2002, p. 16.

2

OJ L 271, 9.10.2002, p. 16.

(3)  

  OJ L 158, 23.6.1990, p. 59.

3

OJ L 158, 23.6.1990, p. 59.

(4)  

  OJ L 33, 3.2.2009, p. 10.

4

OJ L 33, 3.2.2009, p. 10.

(5)  

  OJ L 124, 8.6.1971, p. 1.

5

OJ L 124, 8.6.1971, p. 1.

(6)  

  OJ L 376, 27.12.2006, p. 36.

6

OJ L 376, 27.12.2006, p. 36.

(7)  

  OJ L 178, 17.7.2000, p. 1.

7

OJ L 178, 17.7.2000, p. 1.

(8)  

  OJ L 319, 5.12.2007, p. 1.

8

OJ L 319, 5.12.2007, p. 1.

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