Proposal aims to restore confidence in e-commerce in France
French Minister for Industry, Nicole Fontaine presented a bill during a French government ministerial meeting on 15 January, aimed at restoring confidence in e-commerce in France. The proposed bill is in keeping with the European Directive of 8 June 2002, which seeks to develop information society services. It is hoped that in turn such services will offer significant employment opportunities in small and medium sized enterprises, as well stimulate investment in innovation by European companies, thus enhancing the competitiveness of European Industry. In an action plan entitled 'RESO 2007', French Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin presented the first text for the bill in November 2002. He expressed the need 'instil confidence and support innovation' in order to 'create an environment favourable for the development of structures, content and services.' With this in mind, the bill proposed by Ms Fontaine contains clearer rules for Internet business while also addressing the need for a more secure environment for online users. Significant precision is given to the management of French Internet addresses and the rules concerning Internet service providers and web site hosting services. It also suggests innovative actions such as the introduction of electronic commercial contracts whereby consumers can double check an order they have made before having to pay for it. Such measures aim to make e-commerce more transparent for users. The need to combat cyber crime is also given much consideration in the proposal, as is the liberalisation of cryptology. E-commerce in France is growing at a steady rate of 25 per cent a year, transforming a wide variety of business sectors. In recognising the potential, the bill outlines the French government's goal of facilitating greater Internet availability: Recent reductions in the price of Internet subscription show a growing commitment to electronic services in France.
Countries
France