Responding to the Government consultation on product safety, Lesley Rudd, chief executive of Electrical Safety First, said:
“This government consultation is a once in a generation opportunity to tackle the multiple serious risks facing consumers when shopping online. The evidence is undeniable that online marketplaces are a major route for dangerous goods entering people’s homes. This consultation must ensure these online giants are finally held legally responsible for the safety of goods sold via their sites. The growing threat posed by substandard e-bike and e-scooter batteries must also be urgently tackled, and we continue to urge the Government to introduce new rules, such as third-party certification, to ensure only safe batteries reach consumers. These reforms would better protect shoppers, protect responsible businesses, and help to weed out bad operators producing substandard and potentially lethal versions of these devices. Without brave and bold action, UK consumers will continue to be put at risk. We look forward to engaging with the Government as part of this crucial consultation.”
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