THE future of Bromsgrove and Droitwich Spa charity shops looks safe after a move to secure their exemption from European laws was successful.

Worcestershire Liberal Democrat MEP Liz Lynne supported claims by the Association of Charity Shops it would be impractical for members to give details on where second hand goods had come from.

It meant shops could not comply with a European Commission proposal aimed at making it easier to recall dangerous goods.

Members of the European Parliament's consumer affairs committee voted last month to exempt shops from the general product safety directive.

Mrs Lynne said: "Good sense has prevailed.

"Everyone wants to protect consumers but charity shops are a special case.

"They are unique to Britain and Ireland and I am pleased MEPs from across Europe have recognised this and rallied round to ensure their future is secure."

A report on the directive will be voted on by the entire European Parliament later this month.