Consumer Scotland - Where we are now

Scottish Competition Forum event, held jointly with Edinburgh Law School, University of Edinburgh and Brodies Solicitors LLP

Join us for a presentation and panel discussion concerning consumer protection in Scotland and the role of Consumer Scotland.

Consumer Scotland was established by the Scottish Parliament through the Consumer Scotland Act 2022. Its statutory mandate is to ensure that consumer interests are at the heart of a fair, transparent and sustainable Scottish marketplace.

This event will bring together speakers from Consumer Scotland, from the CMA and TSS to explore the current and future challenges that arise in the consumer protection landscape in Scotland.

Consumer Scotland will give a brief outline of their role and functions and the work they have undertaken since their inception in 2022. The session will explain where Consumer Scotland fits in the landscape and how they work with other bodies. It will examine some of the key challenges currently faced by consumers in Scotland in relation to competition issues in key markets. It will also consider the opportunities that exist to bring about positive changes for consumers in Scotland during the next few years.

The CMA promotes competition and protects consumers by ensuring businesses act responsibly and consumers are treated fairly. Effective, proportionate enforcement builds trust and gives responsible businesses the confidence to grow. Under the DMCC Act, the CMA can now determine breaches of consumer law, order redress for affected consumers and sanction businesses that fail to comply.

These reforms are particularly relevant in Scotland, where consumer protection is reserved but consumer advocacy and advice are devolved. The CMA’s enhanced powers create new opportunities for collaboration with Scottish partners, helping ensure enforcement reflects the needs and experiences of consumers and businesses across Scotland.

 

Speakers:

Ms Emma Cochrane, Acting Executive Director, Consumer Protection, CMA

Ms Hayley Fletcher, Consumer Protection, CMA

Ms Tracey Reilly, Head of Consumer Markets, Consumer Scotland

Mr Douglas Whyte, Director for Policy and Advocacy, Consumer Scotland

The event will be chaired by Prof Arianna Andreangeli, Personal Chair in Competition Law, Edinburgh Law School.

Event Link

Register for this event with Eventbrite