Statement on pre-Budget report

5 December 2005

The OFT today welcomed the Government's decision for the OFT to take on the strategic role envisaged for CTSA by Philip Hampton in his report published in March 2005.

OFT Chairman, Philip Collins, said:

‘This is a good result for consumers, for business and for the economy generally. It provides the basis for an effective resolution of the important issues identified by Philip Hampton. We look forward to working in partnership with the Trading Standards Service and in cooperation with other national regulators and with LBRO itself to provide clear, realistic priorities for local regulatory services.’

He pointed out that changes already under-way within the organisation and work programme of OFT are directed to enhanced co-operation and better co-ordination of national, regional and local services. He also welcomed the opportunity to develop sensible, practical guidance on risk-based enforcement of consumer law.

‘This will reduce the burden on business and the economy, while delivering necessary protection for consumers; it will also avoid the costs of this burden which are otherwise passed on to consumers in the prices that they pay for goods and services’, he said.

Mr Collins added:

‘The OFT and the Trading Standards Service share an important common objective – excellence in delivery of services to consumers and to business in the consumer law field, taking into account national, regional and local interests. The OFT’s role will assist achievement of this objective by providing enhanced central representation, as well as national and regional co-ordination, of the Trading Standards Service.‘

Mr Collins said consultation around OFT’s draft Annual Plan for 2006/7, to begin 14 December, will provide an opportunity for dialogue on first steps that OFT can take to ensure early delivery of the Hampton objectives.

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