Sandra calls for protection for consumers

Sandra Osborne MP has welcomed the minister for consumers' decision to refer changes in Double Glazing Guarantee terms to the OFT Unfair Contract Terms Unit.

She said:

"It was drawn to my attention that a Double Glazing Company trading locally was insisting on existing customers lodging a deposit of £50 before they would investigate or respond to any complaint made under Guarantee. This condition was not mentioned in their original guarantee.

"Of course any individual affected has the right to challenge this in court, but few are willing to do this. I felt there was a bigger issue here and wanted to protect the interests of my constituents.

"Therefore I have contacted the Minister for Consumers. He has responded that a business varying the terms of a contract after they have been agreed is a common problem and such terms would usually be considered unfair. He has referred the matter to the Unfair Contract Terms unit at the Office of Fair Trading for their consideration."