Partner Article

Reforms in consumer protection legislation

New government proposals are to be set out to simplify provisions surrounding consumer protection legislation.

Consumer Minister Edward Davey has published the plans in a new consultation “Empowering and Protecting Consumers”, which hopes to offer clear advice and to individuals. This information will be available through Trading Standards and the Citizens Advice service.

Davey said: “The government believes in giving more power to people. Our consumer policy is all about empowering consumers to make the right decisions for themselves when they buy goods and services.”

Ministers believe that these measures will help drive competition while making businesses more innovative and efficient in a bid to drive economic growth. The plans also home to strengthen the leadership and coordination of Local Authority Trading Standards Services in tackling cases that cross local authority boundaries.

The Consumer Minister added:“For too long people have been faced with a confusing landscape of different public, private and voluntary consumer bodies, with overlapping roles and responsibilities.”

“ It is not always clear where to turn for trusted advice and information which consumers need to make good choices or a champion to support them when they have been ripped off.“

It is hopes that the new legislation will help to strengthen consumer protection measures in all areas of commerce.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .