The Competitions and Mergers Authority (CMA) have recently received a large number of complaints, as some companies sought to use lockdown as an excuse to ignore consumer rights and/or charge rip-off prices for goods and services. Whilst most people understand the difficult time that businesses have experienced over the last few months, this does not give them an excuse to behave illegally.

The majority of complaints have been related to refunds and cancellations, particularly only offering vouchers instead of a refund for holiday accommodation. A large number of complaints also concern nursery and childcare providers and the cancellation of weddings.

To make it easier for people who think they have been treated unfairly to complain, the CMA have set up a COVID-19 Taskforce. Complaints can be registered via their website https://www.coronavirus-business-complaint.service.gov.uk/  .