Trading standards law will bring clarity – CAG

Deputies are set to discuss the Trading Standards (fair trading) (Guernsey) Ordinance 2023 later this month.

It will make wide-ranging changes to consumer protection and fair trading.

The provision is largely based on UK legislation.

CAG has been calling for action, as islanders currently lack consumer protection.

‘Assuming the legislation is passed, we hope that it will indeed introduce consistency and clarity for traders and consumers, as well as supporting businesses which are competing with competitors based outside the Bailiwick, as was the stated aim in the 2015 Trading Standards consultation paper,’ said CAG interim CEO Annie Ashmead.

The changes have been a long time coming, with the changes approved by the States in 2016. In 2018 Brexit regulations were being blamed for delays.

Mrs Ashmead said that as things stood in 2018, some consumers were finding that when things went wrong, they did not necessarily have the rights that they expected.

‘This could often leave them feeling frustrated, of being unfairly treated, or, in some cases, of being cheated out of their money,’ she said.

‘The legislation would also bring clarity to retailers regarding their own rights and obligations to customers and create a level playing field for competing businesses.’

In 2020 Citizens Advice Guernsey produced a manifesto ahead of the elections for States Deputies which included the need for consumer protection based on the increasing number of enquiries that advisers at Citizens Advice were dealing with.

CAG chief operating officer Kerry Ciotti said that highlighted problems concerning building work and home improvements, along with problems with products and service providers as being areas whereby consumers might particularly benefit from improved consumer legislation.

‘Our latest report presents evidence that some people are continuing to experience these problems.’

Mrs Ciotti said CAG appreciated that the vast majority of traders providing goods and services do treat their customers well and would resolve problems quickly and fairly.

n For free advice that is independent, impartial, and confidential, call Citizens Advice on 242266.