The CMA has launched a programme of work to investigate reports of businesses failing to respect cancellation rights during the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic
Through its Covid-19 Taskforce, which monitors market developments and identifies the big problems facing consumers, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has seen increasing numbers of complaints in relation to cancellations and refunds.
These now account for 4 out of 5 complaints being received into the Taskforce and so far include concerns about businesses refusing refunds or firms pressuring people to accept vouchers for holiday accommodation, which can only be used during a more expensive period.
Based on the complaints received, the CMA has identified 3 sectors of particular concern:
It will tackle these areas as a priority and then move on to examine other sectors, based on the information received by the taskforce.
The CMA acknowledges that most businesses are acting reasonably in what are unprecedented circumstances, and the current crisis is placing everyone under pressure, but consumer rights cannot be ignored.
If it finds evidence that companies are failing to comply with the law, the CMA will take appropriate enforcement action, including moving quickly to court if a firm does not address its concerns. Individuals can also take their own legal action against unfair terms should they choose to.
As well as examining specific sectors, the CMA is issuing a statement on its views on consumer protection law in relation to cancellations and refunds during the current crisis.
For most consumer contracts, the CMA would expect a full refund to be issued where:
It also advises that businesses should not be profiting by ‘double recovering’ their money from the Government and customers.
Andrea Coscelli, CEO of the CMA, said:
If people have been affected by unfair cancellation terms in wake of Covid-19, they can report them to the CMA using the online form.
Whilst the CMA is not able to respond directly to every complaint it receives, the information provided will help the CMA to decide which issues to address as part of this rolling programme of work.