Opposition voiced to Trading Standards cuts

Delivery of Trading Standards services in Scotland is currently under review, and a report on the subject will be considered at next Tuesday’s economy environment and infrastructure committee.
Chairman Councillor Colin Smyth said: “While the way of delivering Trading Standards services may need to change, we would vigorously oppose any reorganisation that reduced or eliminated local governance and accountability for consumer protection.”
The review of Trading Standards is intended to lead to the establishing of a new delivery model.
Reports by Audit Scotland and other bodies have expressed a need for fewer delivery units for Trading Standards \_ with suggestions the current delivery model is not viable due to financial pressures on local authorities.
A range of options have been put forward, including either three regional joint committees or a single national committee to oversee the running of the service.
However, it is recommended that councillors oppose the options.
Councillor Smyth said: “Dumfries and Galloway has previously been a victim of the Scottish Government’s relentless centralisation programme when Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service were created.”
The Scottish Government have addressed the current review.
A spokesman said: “We recognise that strong and effective Trading Standards services are vital in protecting consumers from harm, and welcome the establishment of a Review Group by the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA) to identify how the current system can be strengthened.
“We are working with the Review Group to develop policies that will achieve the best outcomes for consumers.”