Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 11
11
The London Fire Brigade told us that low-income households may face higher product safety risks,...
Conclusion
The London Fire Brigade told us that low-income households may face higher product safety risks, as they are more likely to purchase cheaper or counterfeit products.20 The OPSS said it aims to ensure that all products sold in the UK are safe, regardless of what price they are sold at and who they are being used by. It has undertaken limited research into how particular groups, such as older people, interact with products. However, it recognised that it has not yet articulated more generally which consumer groups are more vulnerable to product safety risks, when they are vulnerable, and how it can work to inform people of these risks. The OPSS and the Department accepted that they had more work to do to develop a strategy in this area and will learn from other regulators where possible.21 OPSS coordination with regulatory partners
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
2: PAC conclusion: The OPSS has struggled to reach some businesses and consumers to prevent harm being caused by unsafe products. 2.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: Spring 2022 2.5 OPSS is planning to enhance understanding of consumers and businesses, enabling a more proactive and segmented approach to regulating the system, better protecting people and preventing harm including developing a better understanding of how more vulnerable consumers can be better protected.