The theme if National Consumer Week this year is Shopping on the Internet.

The Trading Standards Institute, organisers of the annual week, began a major drive to guide consumers through the web of Internet shopping after two surveys revealed problems with more than a third of purchases.

Consumer affairs minister Dr Kim Howells launched the campaign at the House of Commons on Monday.

In Oxfordshire, people have been test-purchasing goods on the Internet and Oxfordshire County Council has introduced a "frequently asked questions" section on its website.

Other activities have taken place elsewhere in the country to help promote safe Internet shopping.

Organisers are hoping to highlight the risks, as well as the benefits, of shopping for goods and services on the Internet. Shopping on the Internet - Better Safe than Sorry! is a free booklet which answers consumer concerns and offers advice on the safest ways to buy on the Internet.

Allan Charlesworth, chief executive of the Trading Standards Institute, said: "We have chosen Shopping on the Internet as the focus for our annual National Consumer Week in the hope that shoppers will use our tips on the safe way to go shopping on the Internet - and that companies will take heed of warnings to improve customer service when doing business on the Net."

New distance selling regulations also come into force on October 31 to help protect consumers buying on-line.

Trading Standards back the new law, which stipulates that websites must include the name of the company, a full description of the goods or services offered, all prices including taxes and delivery charges, and seven days' cancellation rights for consumers.

So if you enjoy shopping on the Net, why not take advice from the experts and do it safely?

For further information or a free advice booklet, telephone 0845 130 8080.