When is 'in future' Guy. Any idea how soon?
Susan
That means from now on.
The GRO have to work under regulations such as the Distance Selling Regulations 2000 and the Sale of Goods Act 1979
Section 13-(1) of the Sale of Goods Act 1979 states-
"Where there is a contract for the sale of goods by description, there is an implied condition that the goods will correspond to the description."
That means-
If you order a certificate giving a reference number and stating it is for Joe Bloggs born 31 February 1997 and the GRO send a certificate for James Bloggs 1997 or Joe Bloggs 1983 you have a right to reject those certificates as they are not fit for purpose.
By the same token the GRO cannot charge extra to ensure the certificates they provide meet the requirements of the contract of sale as the law stipulates the legal price the certificate can be sold for.
If you write in and apply for a certificate to be sent unfolded and it arrives folded, there is a breach of contract and you can refuse the certificate or even ask for compensation.
The Statutory Instrument - The Consumer Protection (Distance Selling) Regulations 2000 may be seen at.
http://www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si200023The Sale of Goods Act 1979 may be downloaded at
http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts1979aCheers
Guy
