Earlier this year, the Money and Pensions Service reduced the targets for community debt advice agencies by nearly one third. They said it was in recognition of growing case complexity. But the reality is that the targets for debt advice are at the same level as four years ago, despite demand rocketing. MaPS has shattered provision, as the cost-of-living crisis is deepening.

WADA and the Centre for Responsible Credit have submitted a joint response to the HM Treasury consultation concerning the Consumer Credit Act Review. We do not support the proposal to remove statutory consumer protections and replace these with rules made by the Financial Conduct Authority (‘FCA’). The FCA is not effectively enforcing existing rules, and there should always remain a right of redress for consumers through our legal system.

Richard Holland (writing in a personal capacity) warns that proposals to reform the Consumer Credit Act 1974 and substitute legislation with FCA rules and guidance could seriously impact debtor’s rights.