Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008

The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 came into force on 26 May 2008. They implement the Unfair Commercial Practices Directive (UCPD) in the UK, and replace several pieces of consumer protection legislation that were in force prior to 26 May 2008. The Regulations introduce a general duty not to trade unfairly and seek to ensure that traders act honestly and fairly towards their customers. They apply primarily to business to consumer practices (but elements of business to business practices are also covered where they affect, or are likely to affect, consumers).

The vast majority of UK businesses are fair dealing and should not have needed to change their business practices to comply with the Regulations, which aim to tackle those businesses who don't always treat their customers well.

For more information see the OFT/BERR joint illustrative guidance on the Regulations:

Download Guidance on the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations (pdf 380 kb).

See also BERR's A basic guide for business (pdf 576 kb).

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