The Consumers' Association is to get new powers to enforce
consumer rights, including the right to apply for 'Stop Now
Orders,' to protect people from dishonest businesses, Consumer
Minister Gerry Sucliffe announced on Friday.
The organisation, which now operates under the Which? brand,
has become a 'Designated Enforcer' and joins other bodies such as
the Civil Aviation Authority, the Office of Communications and the
Financial Services Authority in being able to enforce consumers
rights.
They will be able to take action, under the Government's
Enterprise Act, against business that breach consumer legislation
by applying to the courts for 'Stop Now Orders'.
These Orders force a business to stop trading dishonestly or
face fines or even jail. In addition, the Consumers' Association
can seek assurances from traders they will not repeat their
dishonest conduct.
Consumer Minister Gerry Sutcliffe said: "I am delighted that I
have been able to make the Consumers' Association a designated
enforcer as it strengthens the voice of the consumer. The
Consumers' Association has been a leading advocate of consumer
interests over many years and these new powers will allow them to
continue their excellent work."
Examples of recent enforcement action include acting against
the supply of unsatisfactory quality goods; misleading advertising;
and the use of unfair terms in contracts.
