Dell backtracks on PC sales terms

DELL IS to delete some small print from its consumer terms and conditions after requests from the Office of Fair Trading.

The OFT said that some Dell terms were inconsistent with the Unfair Terms in Consumer Contracts Regulations 1999 or The Consumer Protection (Distance Selling) Regulations 2000.

The terms limited or excluded liability for a range of scenarios. For example, under the previous contracts, Dell had no liability for verbal representations not confirmed in writing.

Christine Wade, OFT Director of Consumer Regulation Enforcement, said: "Distance selling, be that by mail, phone or the internet, does not exclude businesses from ensuring their contracts are fair to consumers and compatible with the law.

"I'm pleased that Dell has worked with the OFT to modify important aspects of its terms and conditions, such as those relating to time of delivery and liability for faulty goods, in the light of the OFT's concerns." µ