Brussels, 11/09/2014 (Agence Europe) - Despite being unable to count on a Commissioner specifically dedicated to Consumer Protection in the Juncker Commission (consumers come under the portfolio allocated to Vera Jourova (Czech Republic), that of Justice, Consumers and Gender Equality), the European Consumer Organisation (known by its French acronym, BEUC) was trying to look on the bright side on Wednesday 10 September. It welcomes the increased importance of consumer issues - particularly consumer rights as guaranteed by EU legislation. At the same time, in view of the importance accorded to “Better regulation”, it warns against the risk of deregulation to the sole benefit of industry, which could paradoxically work to the detriment of these rights. As consumers are drivers of growth when they have confidence in the market, they should be at the forefront of the concerns of the new Commission, BEUC argues.
“We are encouraged that consumer affairs have been predominantly placed within the new Commission. Our preference would always be for a dedicated consumer chief, but bundling consumer policy and justice issues can be made to succeed. That combination of EU responsibilities will help strengthen the enforcement of consumers' legal rights, something which is a top priority for consumer organisations”, said Monique Goyens, Director General of BEUC.
With slightly more misgivings about the emphasis specifically laid by future Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker on the objective of “better regulation”, she issued a warning about the pitfalls of counter-productive deregulation. “It is evident that laws need to be efficient. But, let's be clear, a one-sided reduction of regulatory burdens on business does not equate to better law-making and should never be at the expense of consumers, the environment or workers”.
BEUC also regrets the fact that in the reorganisation of the services of the European Commission, Juncker has placed pharmaceutical products and medical devices, which currently come under DG Health and Consumers (SANCO), under the responsibility of the services of DG Enterprise and Industry. “Policies on pharmaceuticals and medical devices should be designed to promote and protect public health”, Goyens stressed. (AN)