News from the OFT

July 2010

Choice and competition in public services

In a speech at a Reform conference this week, OFT Chief Executive John Fingleton outlined his views on the role of choice and competition in public services.

John also spoke at King's College London this week on the challenges and opportunities posed for the UK competition regime by the recession and public spending cuts.

Improvements for cash ISA customers following super-complaint

The OFT has announced greater transparency over interest rates and a significant reduction in the time it should take to transfer between cash ISA providers, following agreements with the industry.

Reform of corporate insolvency regime

Far-reaching reforms of the corporate insolvency regulatory regime have been recommended by the OFT to build trust in the market and ensure that it works in the best interests of creditors and the wider economy.

Review of high-cost credit

The OFT has published its review of the £7.5 billion high-cost credit sector, making a number of recommendations.to improve the functioning of aspects of these markets.

Enforcement evaluation in the construction sector

An independent evaluation of the OFT's recent competition enforcement activities in the construction sector found significant improvements and changes in business behaviour.

Revised approach to director disqualifications

Revised guidance on director disqualification orders in competition law cases has been published, signalling the OFT’s intent to use these sanctions to deter anti-competitive activity.

Independent evaluation of consumer codes

The OFT has published an independent evaluation of the impact on consumers of three codes within the its Consumer Codes Approval Scheme.

Online barriers to entry

The OFT is seeking the views of businesses on the barriers faced by small and medium-sized firms online.

Legal implications of pricing research

A discussion paper on how new fair trading laws might apply to common pricing practices such as 'three for two' deals or 'was £60, now £30' offers has been published by the OFT.

New education tools to help adult learners be confident consumers

The OFT has launched two new modules as part of its successful Skilled to go consumer education programme.

Marketing freeze

As a consequence of the freeze on all Government advertising and marketing, the OFT's planned campaigns will now be taken forward using free channels such as PR, social media and partnership marketing.