UAE's FNC members approve 15 draft laws in 13 sessions

Abu Dhabi - In addition, the FNC committees also held 167 meetings and organised six seminars and field visits.

Major draft laws passed by the Federal National Council (FNC) members this year include the witness protection law and a new consumer protection bill.
According to the FNC's first session report of the seventh legislative council - from November 14, 2019, to June 30, 2020 - the FNC members approved 15 draft laws in 13 sessions. More than 44 questions covering various sectors were posed to different government departments and ministries by the FNC.
Protection of witnesses
The federal law protecting witnesses and secret sources in criminal cases was approved on May 6. It identifies categories of persons who are entitled to legal protection - secret sources, witnesses, informants, victims and experts. It also provides that the legal protection be extended to the family members of the above persons, in addition to any others whose life or safety might be in danger because of their close relationship with the protected person.
The legislation, which sets out fines of up to Dh100,000 and jail sentences to violators, aims to provide security to individuals who may come under threat for giving evidence in court cases. The law gives powers to judicial authorities to provide the necessary protection to the above-mentioned persons and members of their families from any threat, including assault, revenge and intimidation.
Consumer protection bill
In June, the FNC had approved a draft federal law on consumer protection. Through the draft law, which includes new provisions that explicitly address consumer rights, the FNC aimed to ensure more consumer protection and data security, and more respect for religious values and traditions. It also sought to ensure a safe environment for purchasing commodities and services and obtaining correct information, stressing that consumer-related advertisements and contracts should be in the Arabic language, but other languages may also be used.
Meanwhile, the FNC members also passed a bill that imposes fines of up to Dh300,000 to firms supplying schools and educational institutions with foodstuff that doesn't meet health standards. The federal draft law amendment on public health aimed at promoting food safety and healthy lifestyles so as to protect the health of the general public.
In addition, the FNC committees also held 167 meetings and organised six seminars and field visits.
During the sessions, members also discussed and adopted a number of recommendations that were submitted to the government for consideration.
ismail@khaleejtimes.com 

• Abu Dhabi