Ecommerce takes key role in Queen's Speech

Ecommerce took centre stage yesterday when the Queen's Speech to mark the opening of parliament promised a government bill to create laws to ease online trade.

The Queen's speech - drafted by Downing Street - read: "Legislation will be introduced to promote electronic commerce and start modernising the law; improving competitiveness by enabling the UK to compete in the new digital marketplace."

The Bill, expected some time next month, will recognise electronic signatures as legally binding - currently signatures accompanying transactions cannot be held legally accountable.

Ecentre, the UK's leading ecommerce authority, welcomed the proposals. Director Roger Till said the measures are key to creating the trust needed to encourage businesses and consumers to make transactions over the Web. But he added that he fears the government will take too long to act on the proposals.

The Electronic Commerce Bill will also set out guidelines to encourage the setting up of certification authorities to identify online users and improve security.