My fellow Scottish branch executive members of the Chartered Trading Standards Institute Scottish Branch and I have followed with interest your recent articles regarding the shortage of Trading Standards staff in Scotland as well as the debate in Holyrood.
The work that trading standards officers carry out is extremely important as it protects the public and ensures that the interests of legitimate businesses that contribute to the country's economy are not infringed.
Effective enforcement of consumer protection law protects responsible businesses from being undercut by unfair or deceptive trading practices allowing them to generate growth while minimising the effect of those who operate illegally.
An ageing population and social isolation and loneliness increase susceptibility to such criminal practices. Significant resource is now devoted towards prevention and the safeguarding of vulnerable consumers..
The reductions in local authority resources that have already occurred, and the further reductions in resource to come, mean it is very difficult for local authorities to provide an effective service which meets the needs and expectations of communities. A postcode lottery for consumer protection and the above mentioned activities exists. The system is no longer fit for purpose.
Investment in trading standards in terms of resource and a sustainable governance model is critical for the health and wealth of our country.
Brian Wilson,
Secretary,
Chartered Trading Standards Institute Scottish Branch,
c/o 1 Sylvan Court,
Southfields Business Park,
Basildon, Essex.
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