From the Brussels office

Common European Sales Law (CESL)

On 17 September 2013 the Legal Affairs Committee of the European Parliament voted in favour of the proposal for a CESL optional instrument, with some modifications. For example, the MEPs favour an instrument targeted on distance (and, in particular, internet) sales for business-to-consumer and business-to-business contracts. This is in contrast to the MEPs on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee, who voted not to support the CESL and in favour of further harmonisation efforts. The Legal Affairs Committee now has a mandate to begin discussions with the Council. The plenary of the European Parliament has, however, not yet voted; this is planned to take place in the next few months.