New Bill must balance interests of consumers and businesses

12th June 2013

Commenting on the proposals announced within the Draft Consumer Rights Bill, Dr Adam Marshall, Director of Policy and External Affairs at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said: -Many of the aspects of the draft Consumer Rights Bill will be welcomed by businesses as they will bring greater clarity and simplicity for companies across the country.

-However, we are disappointed that the government has chosen to publish proposals for an 'opt out' collective action regime. Even though the government's proposal is limited to cases in competition law, it could establish a dangerous and unwelcome precedent. The introduction of 'opt out' collective action in the UK could eventually result in expensive and damaging US-style class action lawsuits. Such an outcome would be bad for businesses and consumers, who would ultimately bear the costs of increased litigation. -We will engage with the government over the coming months to ensure that the draft bill is balanced and that it safeguards the interests of businesses, large and small, as well as the interests of consumers.