Consumer Rights Bill 2013-2014 (and probably 2015!)

legal updates

The Consumer Rights Bill is next due its 4th stage through the House of Commons on a “date to be announced”. This means it currently still has NINE more stages before it eventually gets to become law.

Read our disclaimer keyboard_arrow_down

This website content is intended as a general guide to law as it applies to the motor trade. Lawgistics has taken every effort to ensure that the contents are as accurate and up to date as at the date of first publication.

The laws and opinions expressed within this website may be varied as the law develops. As such we cannot accept liability for or the consequence of, any change of law, or official guidelines since publication or any misuse of the information provided.

The opinions in this website are based upon the experience of the authors and it must be recognised that only the courts and recognised tribunals can interpret the law with authority.

Examples given within the website are based on the experience of the authors and centre upon issues that commonly give rise to disputes. Each situation in practice will be different and may comprise several points commented upon.

If you have any doubt about the correct legal position you should seek further legal advice from Lawgistics or a suitably qualified solicitor. We cannot accept liability for your failure to take professional advice where it should reasonably be sought by a prudent person.

All characters are fictitious and should not be taken as referring to any person living or dead.

Use of this website shall be considered acceptance of the terms of the disclaimer presented above.

The much anticipated Consumer Rights Bill is continuing to meander its way through the UK law making machine known as Parliament. 

In brief, proposed law is drafted in the form of a Bill.  It has to go through 5 stages through the House of Commons and a further 5 stages through the House of Lords.  Both Houses then have to approve all the amendments before it gets Royal Assent and then it becomes an Act of Parliament.   

At present, the Consumer Rights Bill is next due its 4th stage through the House of Commons on a “date to be announced”.  This means it currently still has NINE more stages before it eventually gets to become law.  And indeed, even when it finally becomes an Act of Parliament there will doubtlessly be a 3 month period or so before it actually comes into effect.

Not that the motor industry should welcome its arrival with open arms.  For it will contain significant changes to the law surrounding the Sale of Goods.  I shall pass no comment on the appropriateness of a 30 day rejection period (which can be suspended by 7 days to allow a repair).  But note the following:

A “consumer” will be defined (as it stands in the Bill) as “means an individual acting for purposes that are wholly or mainly outside that individual’s trade, business, craft or profession”.

And that “A trader claiming that an individual was not acting for purposes wholly or mainly outside the individual’s trade, business, craft or profession must prove it.”

And so it will not be the consumer to have to prove that they were not buying something in the course of their business but for the motor trader to somehow be expected to be able to prove that they were!  How they are meant to do this is open to question.  The problem will be when someone claims to be buying from within the motor trade only to then say that they were buying something for themselves and that, post-sale, they now expect all of their consumer rights….

Cable For My CarWe offer free next day delivery* on all EV charging cables when shipped within mainland UK

Stocking only premium EV charging cables, we ensure you experience a stress-free EV charge, over and over, confidently backed by our 2 year warranty. Our premium & reliable charging cables are compliant with EU & UK safety standards. We offer free next day delivery* on all EV charging cables when shipped within mainland UK.

Jason WilliamsLegal AdvisorRead More by this author

Related Legal Updates

Proving the ‘chain of custody’ can be a challenge

Conflicting interests on a used car can turn a simple purchase into a legal minefield. Here’s how to evidence the chain, challenge a finance claim, and spot the red flags before you hand over the cash.

Sale or Return: Why “Private Sale” won’t save you from Consumer Rights Act responsibilities

Dealers using Sale or Return cannot hide behind “private sale” labels unless the agency position is made crystal clear from the advert onward. Miss that step and you risk CRA 2015 claims and a DMCCA 2024 breach.

30 Days to Hand the Keys Back: How the Short-Term Right to Reject Really Works

Think a new fault lets buyers walk away, no questions asked? Not quite. Discover why the burden of proof is on the consumer, and how dealers can stay one step ahead.

Don’t Get Caught Out: Why Your Car Warranty Won’t Shield You from the Consumer Rights Act

Think a watertight warranty protects you from refund demands? Think again. We explain how the Consumer Rights Act trumps any small print and what dealers must do to stay safe, or risk costly claims.

When no title means no sale

Four years after selling a Range Rover, a trader was hit with a demand for a full refund when the vehicle was seized in Spain.

Don’t Get Caught Out: Your Essential Part Exchange Checklist

Part exchanges can quickly become costly if a trade-in isn’t as described. Learn what to ask and how to protect yourself with our practical checklist.

Coincidence or Cause? When Timing Leads to Claims

A motorcycle engine seized just 30 miles after a service, sparking a claim of negligence. Find out how this case unfolded in court and why coincidence doesn’t always mean liability.

Get in touch

Complete the form to get in touch or via our details below:

Phone
01480 455500
Address

Vinpenta House
High Causeway
Whittlesey
Peterborough
PE7 1AE

By submitting this quote you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.