Chapter 4

Government & Economic influences on business

In the UK, laws on consumer protection are typical of those existing in most countries.

Match up the following definitions, using colours.

1951 Weights & Measures Act / This Act makes it illegal to mislead pricing claims, such as 40% discount this week only, when in fact the product has always been that price.
1968 Trade Description Act / Retailers and producers must weigh their goods correctly.
1974 Consumer Credit Act / This Act makes is illegal to give consumers a wrong impression about the product. for example it is illegal to state that a shirt is made from cotton when it is in fact made from wool.
1979 Sale of Goods Act / Many consumers may be encouraged to buy goods on credit, this Act makes it illegal not to give the consumer a copy of the credit agreement, they must know exactly what they are buying, and how much interest is being charged.
1987 Consumer Protection Act / This Act makes it illegal to sell goods of an unsatisfactory quality and goods not fit for purpose. For example, a pair of shoes claiming to be 100% waterproof, that leak water the first time you wear them.

In each case identify which ACT has been broken by the business selling the goods.

Act being broken
These shoes are made from the finest leather. Actually they are made from plastic
A consumer buys 1Kg of potatoes, and re-weighs them at home, actually they it is only 800g!
฿500 less than the recommended price. When actually the product is being sold at the recommended price.
A consumer agrees to buy a car on credit. They signed the agreement, but was not given any copy of the agreement.
A motorist asks for a tow rope, but it breaks the first time they use it.

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