19/08/2004
New rules set to resolve credit disputes more easily
The government has announced new rules today designed to create an independent ombudsman that can provide an easier route to resolving credit disputes.
Under present rules, borrowers can only take lengthy and costly court action if they challenge an agreement with a lender other than a bank or building society. From April 2006, the Financial Ombudsman Service will provide an impartial, independent route to solve disputes.
Banks and building societies are already within the scope of the ombudsman service.
Consumer Minister Gerry Sutcliffe said: "The government is undertaking a massive shake up of the consumer credit industry to ensure the market becomes more transparent, fairer and trusted.
"This new system provides a much-needed and approachable alternative to court with a professional and expert body that already has specialist knowledge and a track record of handling consumer complaints about financial services."
It is expected that borrowers with active agreements when the new system starts will be able to use it, providing the problem occurred after the start date.
(gmcg)
Under present rules, borrowers can only take lengthy and costly court action if they challenge an agreement with a lender other than a bank or building society. From April 2006, the Financial Ombudsman Service will provide an impartial, independent route to solve disputes.
Banks and building societies are already within the scope of the ombudsman service.
Consumer Minister Gerry Sutcliffe said: "The government is undertaking a massive shake up of the consumer credit industry to ensure the market becomes more transparent, fairer and trusted.
"This new system provides a much-needed and approachable alternative to court with a professional and expert body that already has specialist knowledge and a track record of handling consumer complaints about financial services."
It is expected that borrowers with active agreements when the new system starts will be able to use it, providing the problem occurred after the start date.
(gmcg)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
21 March 2008
Bart's Unit Provide New Hope For Cancer Patients
Bart's Hosptial in London is planning to test new drugs on cancer patients who haven't responded to conventional therapies. Head of the unit at the hospital, Professor John Gribben says he hopes to halve the usual 10 years it takes to develop a cancer drug.
Bart's Unit Provide New Hope For Cancer Patients
Bart's Hosptial in London is planning to test new drugs on cancer patients who haven't responded to conventional therapies. Head of the unit at the hospital, Professor John Gribben says he hopes to halve the usual 10 years it takes to develop a cancer drug.
29 March 2011
Northern Ireland Jail 'Threat' Note Probed
A criminal inquiry has begun after a prison officer allegedly planted personal details about his governor on a note in a dissident republican suspect's cell.
Northern Ireland Jail 'Threat' Note Probed
A criminal inquiry has begun after a prison officer allegedly planted personal details about his governor on a note in a dissident republican suspect's cell.
09 September 2003
MoD procure 67 Apache helicopters for Army
The Ministry of Defence has announced that 67 Augusta Westland Apache AH Mk1s have been procured for the British Army.
MoD procure 67 Apache helicopters for Army
The Ministry of Defence has announced that 67 Augusta Westland Apache AH Mk1s have been procured for the British Army.
11 June 2009
Police Forces 'Must Work Together To Provide Better Service'
Police forces in England and Wales must radically rethink the way they operate to guarantee the public receives a high standard of service wherever they live - according to Denis O'Connor, Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Constabulary.
Police Forces 'Must Work Together To Provide Better Service'
Police forces in England and Wales must radically rethink the way they operate to guarantee the public receives a high standard of service wherever they live - according to Denis O'Connor, Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Constabulary.
07 August 2014
Govt Considering Crossrail Extension To Hertfordshire
The UK Government is considering a proposed Crossrail extension to Hertfordshire, Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin has announced. It has been claimed that extending the service reduces journey times between London and parts of Hertfordshire by up to 16 minutes.
Govt Considering Crossrail Extension To Hertfordshire
The UK Government is considering a proposed Crossrail extension to Hertfordshire, Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin has announced. It has been claimed that extending the service reduces journey times between London and parts of Hertfordshire by up to 16 minutes.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:It will be cloudy again throughout the day. Mainly dry in the morning, but patchy drizzle in places, becoming more widespread and persistent in the afternoon. Freshening southwesterly winds. Maximum temperature 12 °C.Tonight:Cloudy with a spell of heavy rain pushing south through late evening and the early hours, followed by some clear spells. Minimum temperature 6 °C.