MP Malcolm Moss has called on the Government to introduce a law to safeguard future shoppers following the collapse of Christmas hamper and gift company Farepak. Mr Moss, who represents North East Cambridgeshire, said legislation should be put in place to

MP Malcolm Moss has called on the Government to introduce a law to safeguard future shoppers following the collapse of Christmas hamper and gift company Farepak.

Mr Moss, who represents North East Cambridgeshire, said legislation should be put in place to prevent the situation happening again.

He told MPs during a House of Commons debate into the company's collapse that provision should be made to protect consumers' money before goods or services they have bought are delivered. "The Government should recognise that the group of consumers affected followed the Government's agenda - they were saving," he said.

"They were taking responsible action to save for their future and to avoid personal debt. There is, therefore, a case for the Government to do all that they can to make funds available to help such families."

Twenty-eight families in East Cambridgeshire were hit by the collapse of Farepak last month. Some had saved as much as £700, which the company had promised to turn into vouchers to spend in High Street shops.

Farepak agent Susie Holt, of High Barns, Ely, who signed up families with the Swindon-based company, said: "I have had no contact with Farepak. I have heard nothing. I don't know where we go from here."

Mr Moss said during the debate: "It is heartbreaking for those involved, as well as shocking, and probably immoral and illegal to boot.

"This is, indeed, the nightmare before Christmas."

Soham marketing company Blue Donkey has already started collecting gifts from well-wishers at its High Street offices and Sainsbury and Tesco have pledged help nationally.

Anyone wishing to donate gifts for the families can call into the Blue Donkey offices at 50 High Street, Soham.