Mike welcomes new EU rules on phone chargers

A Swansea AM has today welcomed the passing of a new regulation from the European Parliament, which will force smartphone makers to introduce a universal phone charger in an attempt to boost consumer rights and combat environmental waste.

Last week, MEPs voted in favour of introducing the new regulation, which will see a common smartphone charger introduced for use throughout EU member states by 2017.

Commenting on the news, Swansea East AM Mike Hedges said:

“Smartphone owners will know too well the frustration when it comes to upgrading to a new phone only to find that their current charger and gadgets are no longer usable as a result of money making design changes from the manufacturers.

“The new regulation passed by the European Parliament will not only help to put an end to the thousands of tonnes of electronic waste caused annually by pointless design changes, but will also give people throughout Europe better consumer rights.  

“Whether it be for legislating to boost consumer issues, strengthening employment rights, or to provide regeneration funding to our disadvantaged communities, Wales is certainly seeing the benefits of the UK’s membership of the EU.”