Consumers save £68m with helpline

Friday, January 13, 2006

DTI helpline helps buyers understand their rights
86% of consumers happy with advice given
Advice on car buying and other products

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A government helpline launched last year has so far helped more than a million consumers save £68 million.

Consumer Direct was launched by the Department of Trade and Industry six months ago to help buyers understand their rights on a range of products, including cars.

A recent survey of callers has found that 86% have been satisfied and helped with the advice given, and would recommend the service to their friends and family.

Consumer minister Gerry Sutcliffe said: 'It's great news that a million callers have already benefited from high-quality, impartial advice. Millions more consumers stand to benefit from the service in 2006.'

Currently Consumer Direct is on offer in London, Scotland, Wales, Yorkshire, Humber and East, South East and South West England. The service will spread to the remainder of the UK by this spring.

You can log on for advice at www.consumerdirect.gov.uk, or call Consumer Direct on 08454 040506. Calls cost a maximum of 4 pence per minute from a BT landline.