July 07 2014 – “Strict enforcement is key. Consumer rights that exist on paper only do not help consumers. Effective enforcement of consumer legislation is essential in turning rights on paper, into tangible benefits for consumers in practice. Enforcement co-operation not only leads to a better functioning Single Market for consumers, but also brings benefits for enterprises through more transparency; more competition; a level-playing field and legal certainty for companies. We must create a framework that will allow us to tackle widespread infringements which concern several or even all EU countries at the same time. In this context we must also carefully reflect on what should be the role of the Commission – first as a coordinator, but also in helping identify malpractices, and in deciding on the common EU-level mechanisms that would best address such malpractices.” Commissioner for Consumer Policy, Neven Mimica.