Glenis Willmott has welcomed action by the European Commission to crack down on widespread problems with the ways banks treat their customers.

Mrs Willmott, Labour’s Leader in Europe, said that the Commissioner responsible for Consumer Affairs had announced the findings of their recent investigations.   These showed alarming examples of ways in which banks can hide their charges and make it difficult for customers to make price comparisons.

She said.  “The findings will not come as a total surprise.  Consumer groups and constituents have been raising the issues for some time.  However, I’m pleased that the Commission has now gathered the evidence, and I look forward to some concrete action.”  

“Where European law has been broken, it will be up to national authorities to enforce the regulations.  However, if it proves that existing EU legislation is inadequate I look forward to urgent proposals being brought forward by the Commission.”

22 September 2009