This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Christmas shoppers warned about dodgy goods
22/12/2003
Consumers shopping for Christmas
presents were today warned about the dangers of dodgy or
counterfeit goods.
Minister for Finance and Public
Services Andy Kerr issued the warning as many people in
Scotland are buying last-minute gifts for friends and
family in the run-up to December 25. Dodgy goods can be
disappointing or downright dangerous and could ruin
Christmas.
Mr Kerr praised the good work done by
local authority Trading Standards officers to block these
goods and protect the public. He said:
"Many people in Scotland will be
buying last-minute gifts for friends and family this week
in the run-up to December 25. We all love giving and
receiving presents at Christmas - but that enjoyment can be
ruined by dodgy or counterfeit goods.
"They can, of course, be disappointing
and ruin Christmas - the toys that don't work or the fake
item of designer clothing that falls apart after one wash.
But the consequences are often more serious - counterfeit
goods can be extremely dangerous. Toys can be breaching
safety standards and may cause injury when used.
"It is easy to be tempted by what
appears to be a bargain - but the dodgy characters who
peddle counterfeit goods to unsuspecting consumers can have
links to organised crime and drugs and are making money at
the expense of others.
"My advice to consumers this Christmas
is always buy from reputable traders and, if in doubt, seek
the advice of trading standards officers.
"Local authority Trading Standards
officers are working hard to keep these goods off the
streets and protect the public this Christmas. Across
Scotland, they are monitoring, testing and confiscating any
items that appear not to be authentic.
"But the easiest way to avoid the
disappointment and danger that dodgy goods can pose is not
to buy them in the first place. Follow the advice of
Trading Standards and don't let your Christmas be
ruined."
The Trading Standards Service enforces
the law and regulations that govern goods and services
which we buy, hire and sell. The Service is delivered by
local government and includes advice services for business
and consumers. For further details on Trading Standards and
consumer advice, visit
www.tradingstandards.gov.uk