Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations

The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations will implement the Unfair Commercial Practices Directive (UCPD) in the UK. It comes into force on 26 May 2008, subject to Parliamentary approval. The Directive introduces a general duty not to trade unfairly and seeks to ensure that traders act honestly and fairly towards their customers. It applies to business to consumer transactions. 

The vast majority of UK businesses are fair dealing and will not need to change their businesses practices but the Directive aims to tackle those businesses who don’t always treat their customers well.

For more information, see BERR's basic guide for business, and the draft guidance on the implementation of the UCPD.

Download A basic guide for business (576 kb).

Download Interim Guidance on the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations (390 kb). Please note that this is subject to Parliament agreeing the Regulations and BERR ministerial clearance. 

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