News from the OFT

September 2011

OFT announces package of measures for mobility aids sector

The OFT has announced a package of measures to tackle problems with the mobility aids market - including consumer protection investigations into two national traders and a national consumer awareness campaign.

Proposed changes to the consumer protection regime

The OFT has responded to the Government's consultation on changes to the UK consumer protection regime. We believe there remains a vital role for a national enforcement body that links competition and consumer enforcement and can tackle sector wide problems. However, there should also be more joined-up decision- making in choosing priority cases, and improved joint working when taking action.

OFT takes action against heating oil companies and price comparison websites

The OFT has taken action to prevent consumers being misled when searching online for heating oil supplies. It found that some websites offering to find consumers the best price for heating oil were not clear about whether they were price comparison sites or sites for ordering heating oil directly from a single supplier.

High Court order secured to stop unfair gym contract terms

The High Court has ordered a gym management company not to use certain unfair terms and business practices. The OFT's case against Ashbourne Management Services Ltd followed a large number of complaints from consumers who had entered into lengthy memberships which they were not able to cancel.

Super-complaint about travel money

Consumer Focus has submitted a super-complaint to the OFT about the cost of obtaining foreign currency and overseas use of credit and debit cards. The OFT will respond within 90 days.

OFT launches dentistry market study

The OFT has launched a market study to examine whether the private and NHS dentistry markets are working well for patients.

Card surcharges

The OFT has requested information from a number of airlines, as part of its investigation into the transparency and presentation of card surcharges. This follows a super-complaint from Which? about surcharges payable when consumers use a credit or debit card.

OFT issues call for evidence on motor insurance

The OFT has issued a call for evidence to establish the background to recent reports of rising UK private motor insurance premiums. It wants to establish the reasons behind any increase, and whether there are consumer or competition issues that need to be addressed to improve the functioning of the market.

Steer clear of potential loan scams, warns OFT

The OFT is warning people to steer clear of scam loan companies who take upfront fees but fail to provide credit or offer clearly unsuitable credit alternatives.

Change needed to encourage competition in organic waste treatment

Following its market study into the treatment of organic waste in England and Wales, the OFT has made a number of recommendations designed to increase transparency and competition in the sector.