Ministers propose new unfair trading regulations

The UK Government has laid draft regulations in Parliament for a new law that will protect consumers from aggressive and other unfair sales practices.

The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations implements the European Commission's Unfair Commercial Practices Directive (UCPD).

Most provisions of the regulations will be enforceable by both criminal and civil sanctions.

Consumer Affairs Minister Gareth Thomas confirmed that if approved in debate the Consumer Protection Regulations (CPRs) will come into force on 26 May 2008.

Gareth Thomas said: ‘This law is good news for consumers, honest businesses and Trading Standards and the OFT, which will enforce it.’

‘It delivers better protections for consumers, cuts red tape and puts in place a simpler and clearer consumer law that will be easier to interpret and enforce.’

“The final timetable takes into account the views of business and gives everyone suitable time to prepare.

Consumer Affairs Minister Gareth Thomas

‘The final timetable takes into account the views of business and gives everyone suitable time to prepare.’

The CPRs will ban 31 types of unfair sales practices outright including, bogus closing down sales, prize draw scams, and aggressive doorstep selling.

They will also for the first time establish a catch-all duty not to trade unfairly, closing loopholes that rogue traders have previously been able to exploit.

The regulations are intended to benefit honest businesses by simplifying consumer protection legislation and driving out the rogues.

The final implementation timetable of 26 May 2008 has been decided following consultation with business who asked for more time to prepare for the new rules.