A BILL of consumer rights that will protect people from rip-offs and give them an instant right to redress is to be drawn up by the government.

Ministers are planning to review all consumer legislation in the UK and distil it into an easy-to-understand list of legal protections for consumers.

The announcement is part of the government’s new drive to connect with ordinary people.

The charter is likely to cover basic principles such as a duty to treat consumers fairly, the right not to be overcharged or misled and the right of redress.

John Hutton, the business secretary, will lead the review.

There are currently more than 100 pieces of legislation making up consumer law and there is concern that it is so complicated most consumers are not aware of their rights. Trading standards officers say the complexity means it is often difficult to get a conviction.

The review, to be announced this month, will also propose abolishing regulations that cause unnecessary burdens to business, including rules such as how to sell bird seed.

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