Consumer Law Module CST 107

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Questions and Answers

The Consumer Union was established in the USA.

True (A)

Which of the following is NOT one of the four consumer rights identified by JFK in 1962?

Choose
Informed
Safety
Security (correct)

Which of the following is NOT listed as part of the International Organisation of Consumer Unions' (1987) consumer rights?

Right to fair prices (correct)
Right to information
Right to basic services and to choice
Right to redress
Right to representation and to protection
Right to consumer education

What is the primary role of the regulator in relation to annual price increases for essential services like electricity, gas, and public transport?

To ensure that these price increases are fair and reasonable. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the 'right to redress' in consumer protection?

It ensures that consumers have the ability to seek compensation or resolution for faulty goods or services or instances of misleading representations. Signup and view all the answers

Consumer rights ONLY focus on protecting the consumer and do not involve any associated responsibilities.

False (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the overarching goal of consumerism?

To promote and uphold consumer rights and responsibilities, ultimately aiming to protect and enhance the well-being of consumers. Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Consumer Protection

Framework of laws, regulations, and actions to safeguard consumer rights and interests.

Consumer Rights (Safety)

The right to be safe from harm caused by products or services.

Right to Information

Consumers have a right to accurate and truthful information about products or services.

Right to Choice

Consumers are entitled to choose from various options available in the marketplace.

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Right to Redress

Consumers are entitled to compensation and resolution for issues with poor services or shoddy goods.

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Consumer Responsibilities

Duties and obligations of consumers, like being informed and acting critically.

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Consumerism

Promoting consumer rights and responsibilities to enhance consumer empowerment and protection.

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Study Notes

Consumer Law ModuleCST 107 - Week 2

Learning Objectives: Discuss why consumers need protection and Describe/apply the language of consumer rights and responsibilities.
Recap of Week 1: Focus on the reasons why consumers need protection.
Consumer Protection Framework: Includes regulation, representation, advice, and enforcement.

Consumer Rights

Timeline:
- 1930s: Consumer Union founded in the USA
- 1950s: Consumer Associations formed in Europe
- Government White Papers for national consumer bodies
- National Consumer Council in England
- General Consumer Council for Northern Ireland (statutory, independent of government)
Consumer Rights: JFK's Speech to Congress (1962) highlighted four consumer rights:
- Safety
- Be informed
- Choice
- Be heard
International Organisation of Consumer Unions (1987): Emphasized international consumer rights, including:
- Right to information
- Right to basic services and choice
- Right to representation and protection
- Right to redress
- Right to consumer education

Rights to Information

Right to be protected: Against misleading information, advertising, labeling, etc.
- Examples: "nut-free" packaging, odometer readings, energy ratings
Right to facts: Needed for informed choices/protection

Right to Basic Services and Choice (at Competitive Prices)

Access to various products and services/competitive prices.
Government/private monopolies/quality/fair prices
Examples: Water usage at caravan sites, increases in public transport costs

Choice

Engine of consumer power: The ability for consumers to discriminate between options and drive competition
Suppliers must keep products attractive and competitive to ensure consumer investment.

Right to Representation and Protection

Consumer interests heard in government policymaking.
Examples: "Reform: Can't Pay/Won't Pay; Fair/Affordable/Sustainable" in consultations.
Decisions impacting consumers should involve upfront consultation.

Right to Redress

Compensation for shoddy goods/services/misrepresentation.
Legal aid/small claims available.
Correcting errors and getting refunds are covered.
Examples: Defective merchandise, incorrect charges

Right to Consumer Education

Consumers gain knowledge & skills throughout lives.
Examples: Consumer Skills for All, Consumer Proficiency, and Financial Capability/Literacy Strategies

Right to a Healthy Environment

Right to a high quality of life
Environment impacts quality of living and well-being for people & future generations.
Example: Sustainability - responsible consumerism

Consumer Councils' Consumer Rights

Explanation, Access, Choice, Information, Representation, and Redress are all Consumer Rights categories.

Rights vs Responsibilities

Consumer rights and responsibilities are equally important.
Consumers should be aware of both.
- Responsibilities may include: critical awareness, action, social responsibility, ecological responsibility, and solidarity.
Example: Right to expect safe products/responsibility to ensure product safety.

Legal Protection

UK has strong consumer laws
EU Directives affect standards
EU Directives/Legislation may not always improve consumer rights; sometimes they reduce consumer protection.
Legislation focuses on competition, less regulation, to improve consumer protection.

Reading Material

Refer to provided reading materials for detailed analysis. Details for each source, including author, title, and year, are listed.

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Description

Explore the essential concepts of consumer protection in this interactive quiz. Delve into the history and rights of consumers as highlighted by key figures and organizations. Understand the framework that supports consumers and their rights within the market.