Mail order: when should the purveyor take payment?

[betty swollocks]

Twice recently I've ordered cycling stuff online, only to be advised after the order has been processed that the item is on back order and will be despatched when it's in stock.
Both off these items were paid for using my debit card and both monies were debited from my bank account immediately.
Are purveyors allowed to do this?
I always thought purveyors could only take your money at time of despatch?? Am I labouring under a misapprehension?
Thanks.

 

[classic33]

No money is supposed to be taken, unless they have told you the item(s) are not available for despatch, and you have agreed to the money being taken.

It's a slight bending of the regulations, where you not answering a question not asked, allows it.

But the money earns them interest, not you.

 

[Vidor06]

I started paying for as many things as possible with Paypal. I ordered a cycling print from www.victorychimp.com the other day and Paypal offered me the chance for them to pay the seller but that they wouldnt take the cash from my account for 14 days. So a small scale seller like Ryan of Victory Chimp isnt out of pocket and if my goods dont turn up for 14 days I dont pay anything.
Paypal explain it better here.

 

[GrumpyGregry]

Wot @Vidor06 said. Use PayPal 'pay after delivery' and the problem goes away.

 

[betty swollocks]

Thanks everyone: a big help.