EU, UEFA set up consumer hotline for Euro 2008 fans

The EU and UEFA have launched an information campaign and helpline to advise fans travelling to Euro 2008 on their consumer rights and to provide support for those who run into problems.

The campaign deals with consumer issues ranging from fake match tickets to transferring tickets in the case of illness, to air travel, roaming charges, EU health insurance and problems shopping abroad, according to an EU statement.

A free phone consumers' rights helpline service on 0080067891011 will also run in all EU languages throughout the tournament, based in Austria and Switzerland, from June 1.

However, as Austria's co-hosts Switzerland is not part of the EU, fans based there will have to access any information through a pay number, 003222999696.

EU Consumer Commissioner Meglena Kuneva said: “Our message is clear: as an EU citizen you have very strong consumer rights. Know them and use them!

“We want fans to have the best possible experience when they travel to Euro 2008 – and understanding their consumer rights will help them greatly.”