Protection of consumers: timeshare, long-term holiday products, resale and exchange contracts

The Council held an exchange of views and took note of a report reflecting the state of the work conducted within the Council under the Portuguese Presidency since the presentation of the proposal for a Directive.

The report points out that revision of Directive 94/47/EC has become a priority given the problems faced by consumers in relation to resale and new products, such as timeshare-like products (e.g. holiday stays in movable property, like boats or caravans) or long term holiday products (e.g. discount holiday clubs) which are not covered by the present Directive.

The ministerial debate focused on the relationship of the draft Directive with the future framework Directive on consumer contractual rights, in particular on the extent of and appropriate time for harmonisation of the modalities and effects of the right of withdrawal.

The European Parliament first-reading opinion is expected in Spring 2008.