Consumer rights bills ready for NLA
The Justice Ministry is introducing two bills that will better arm consumers and recognise their rights, permanent secretary Charan Phakdithanakul said yesterday.
The bills have been drafted and go before the National Legislative Assembly soon. Charan said the ministry and the Office of the Judiciary jointly drafted the bills and saw them as New Year gifts for the public. One bill defines violations by companies selling flawed goods and services and establishes criminal punishment and civil compensation. The other bill says consumers have equal status with companies. Apart from protecting local consumers from disreputable sellers, foreigners - tourists and residents alike - are covered. Charan said the bill would ensure fairness in court for consumers taking on vendors. The ministry is setting up an independent body to regulate consumer-protection measures - something included in the 1997 Constitution. He said the new charter should stipulate a timeframe for the body's establishment.
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