Text tabled : A7-0343/2012

  Małgorzata Handzlik (PPE), in writing. − (PL) Consumer credit is often a key aspect in raising citizens’ standard of living. Unfortunately, unclear principles, a lack of information or even consumer-unfriendly regulations mean that this instrument cannot actually always be utilised in full. As a result of the Consumer Credit Directive, consumers will acquire a high level of protection, and the internal market in cross-border consumer credit will be strengthened. Thus a good instrument is in effect; unfortunately it will be unable to fulfil its aims if it is not properly and effectively introduced into the national legal order of Member States. I support the report because I fully concur that the proper transposition of EU law by Member States, without unnecessary delay, is absolutely necessary for consumers to be effectively protected, and for the single market to function properly in this respect. The issues that have turned out to pose particular problems in the transposition process are those of advertising, information conveyed prior to conclusion of an agreement, early repayment and calculation of the annual rate of interest. Some Member States have also failed to adhere to the transposition deadlines. My view, then, is that the European Commission should carry on monitoring transposition and insist that Member States apply the directive properly.