CONSUMER PROTECTION AGENCIES

Question 1

What is THE OFFICE OF FAIR TRADING?

Answer 1

• Protects consumers & explains their rights
• Ensures businesses compete & operate fairly.
• Recommends the government what laws are needed & where
• ‘Conducts research

Question 2

What is THE TRADING STANDARDS DEPT?

Answer 2

• Provides info to businesses/consumers/schools
• Check products are safe to prevent dangerous goods reaching customers
They enforce • Trades description act
They ensure • Food contains what it should

Question 3

What is THE ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH DEPT?

Answer 3

It is responsible for
• providing a range of services maintaining/improving/protecting
• the health & quality of life in the community

Question 4

What is THE FOOD STANDARDS AGENCY?

Answer 4

It aims to
• protect the Public's health
• reduce food borne illness 
• promote healthy eating
• improve & enforce food laws 
• promotes honest & informative labelling

Question 5

What is CONCILIATION?

Answer 5

Conciliation enables the parties to settle their differences themselves.
It is FREE

Question 6

What is ARBITRATION?

Answer 6

Is an alternative to court.
Both parties give their written disputes to an independent arbitrator.
It is NOT FREE & IF YOU DONT LIKE THE OUTCOME YOU CANT GO TO COURT

Question 7

What is COURT ACTION?

Answer 7

Is a LAST RESORT.
Compensation for £15000 or less = SMALL CLAIMS COURT.
No solicitors need to be involved therefor is inexpensive