The Regulations came into force on 31st October 2000 and gave
new rights to consumers who buy on-line or via digital TV, mail
order, telephone or fax. According to a recent National Statistics
survey, in 2003, 48% of UK households had access to the internet,
with over 50% of adults buying goods and services on- line.
Where the Regulations apply, consumers have additional rights
including rights to clear information, written confirmation of
purchase and delivery details, a period of seven working days
during which the order can be cancelled and a refund claimed, and
protection against fraudulent use of a credit card.
The DSRs apply to almost all types of distance shopping but
there are exceptions: business to business (B2B) contracts, certain
financial services, auctions, contracts for the sale of land, and
vending machines.
Some parts of the regulations do not apply to: deliveries of
food and beverages for everyday consumption, contracts for
transport, accommodation, catering or leisure services provided
on
specific dates or within specified periods, and timeshare and
package holidays.
