Understanding the Latest Changes in UK Consumer Protection Law

The UK government is rolling out new regulations under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024, which will take effect in two phases. These changes aim to bolster consumer rights and ensure fairer trading practices across various sectors.

Key Changes Effective from 6th April 2025

1. Enhanced Consumer Protection Enforcement: The law will empower authorities to enforce consumer protection more effectively. This includes new remedies for violations of consumer rights.

2. Unfair Trading Practices: A major overhaul in consumer rights aims to shield consumers from unfair trading. This replaces previous regulations from 2008, although specific redress rights sections (232, 234, 235) will not activate yet.

3. Regulatory Expediency: The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) and other regulators will now have a formal duty to expedite certain consumer functions, ensuring quicker responses to consumer issues.

4. Amendments in Key Sectors: Changes affect vital industries such as telecommunications, water, railways, and energy, ensuring these sectors comply with updated consumer protection standards.

Changes Slated for 1st January 2026

1. Consumer Savings Schemes: New rules will govern consumer savings schemes, aiming to provide clearer protections and guidelines for consumers participating in these arrangements.

These legislative updates are part of the UK government's ongoing efforts to refine the consumer protection landscape, adapting to the evolving digital market and ensuring consumer interests are safeguarded. For more detailed information, you can access the impact assessments and further details provided by the Department for Business and Trade.