Bira backs call for tougher rules on unsafe products sold through online marketplaces

Bira has joined dozens of trade bodies, safety organisations and businesses in calling on the Government to introduce stronger rules to prevent unsafe products being sold through online marketplaces.

The organisations have written to Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds MP urging the Government to use powers under the Product Regulation and Metrology Act to introduce a clear legal duty on online marketplaces to take responsibility for the safety of products sold through their platforms.

Bira is among the organisations backing the letter, alongside Which?, the Association of Cycle Traders, Bicycle Association, British Toy & Hobby Association, Electrical Safety First, National Fire Chiefs Council and a range of other trade and safety organisations.

The letter says investigations by members of the coalition have uncovered thousands of unsafe products being offered for sale online, covering products including toys, baby products, cosmetics and electrical goods.

It says products are often re-listed and purchased by unsuspecting shoppers even after they have been identified as unsafe, arguing that online marketplaces should be required to take proactive steps to prevent dangerous products being listed and sold.

The coalition is calling for regulators to have strong enforcement powers, including significant financial penalties, where online marketplaces fail to meet their obligations.

Sue Davies, Head of Consumer Rights and Food Policy at Which?, said: “Numerous Which? investigations have highlighted how alarmingly simple it is to purchase hazardous items online. The Government has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to improve our product safety rules, and we hope they take decisive action to protect the public.

“We are urging the Government to introduce rules using powers under the Product Regulation and Metrology Act to impose a statutory duty on online marketplaces to prevent dangerous products from being sold, backed by robust enforcement powers and financial penalties for non-compliance.”

The letter argues that stronger rules would also help responsible UK retailers and suppliers compete on a more level playing field, as businesses that meet product safety requirements can face higher compliance costs than those selling through marketplaces without equivalent accountability.

The coalition is now calling on the Government to ensure the forthcoming secondary legislation establishes meaningful duties and enforcement powers, rather than relying primarily on voluntary action or the removal of products after they have already reached the market.

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