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UK to speed up rules targeting 'subscription traps' and fake discounts
The government says the package, originally expected next spring, will now be implemented by January 2027 and aims to save consumers up to £170 per person a year.
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced plans to bring forward measures intended to reduce cost of living pressures by targeting so-called subscription traps and deceptive discounting practices, BBC Business reports.
Under the changes, companies would have to provide clearer upfront information, send regular reminders, and make it easier for customers to exit auto renewing subscription contracts, with rules designed to stop people being rolled onto more expensive terms without their knowledge.
Burnham is also vowing to curb so-called pretend prices by ending the use of misleading “was” prices, made up discounts, or tactics involving recommended retail prices that retailers use to present deals as better value.
The measures, previously announced under Burnham’s predecessor Sir Keir Starmer, were expected to take effect next spring but are now planned for January 2027, and the government previously estimated they could save consumers £400 million per year, or up to £170 per person, according to BBC Business.