"Given that experts in the cyber industry now predict the issue of scalping to grow across other important goods and services this year, we are looking at presenting a Bill in Parliament so that we can further explore legislative options to protect consumers from this unfair practice."
For those less familiar with UK politics, Early Day Motions essentially introduce topics, while actual Bills make it more likely that legislation will be considered. Chapman's Bill will still need to find support and go through the legislative process before it gets approved, but this shows how seriously the UK government is taking the problem. Chapman's comment to IGN also highlights how the problem could expand beyond video game consoles and into other goods and services.
Resell groups in the UK have been causing issues for consumers since PS5 and Xbox Series X launched last November. Users pay to join, and can access different bots based on their subscription tier. While the problem is particularly frustrating for fans, it also makes it more difficult for Sony and Microsoft to meet the demands of customers. Chapman says he introduced the Bill based on requests from his constituents.
“The issue of scalping first came up with constituents contacting me to explain their frustration about being unable to get hold of certain games consoles or computer components pre-Christmas," Chapman told IGN. "On investigation we uncovered more details of the unscrupulous practice of ‘scalping’ by automated bots to bulk buy these goods and sell them on at inflated prices."
It remains to be seen whether or not the legislation will gain steam, but it's clear that the issue is being taken quite seriously.
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Source: https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/ps5-playstation-xbox-series-x-uk-considering-scalping-ban/
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