Overview

The Small Print Bill aims to improve readability of contracts and advertisements by setting minimum text size requirements. The Secretary of State will create regulations specifying the minimum print size for terms and conditions in contracts and advertisements for goods and services. Failure to comply would render contracts unenforceable.

Description

This bill mandates the Secretary of State to create regulations determining the minimum font size for terms and conditions in advertisements and contracts for goods and services within 12 months of its passing. These regulations can vary depending on the type and part of the advertisement or contract. The Secretary of State must consult relevant organizations before establishing these regulations and can later modify them. These regulations will be subject to parliamentary scrutiny. Crucially, any contract using terms and conditions that don't meet these regulations will not be legally binding.

Key Definitions:

• "Advertisement": Any letter or notice in a publication or on a website offering goods or services (excluding fixed billboards).
• "Contract": An agreement between two parties for the provision of goods or services.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify any direct government spending figures. Costs will likely arise from the creation and enforcement of the regulations by the relevant government department. This will likely be at least partially offset by reduced consumer disputes.

Groups Affected

• Businesses: Will need to update their advertising materials and contracts to comply with the new regulations, potentially incurring costs.
• Consumers: Will benefit from clearer and more easily readable terms and conditions, leading to potentially better informed purchasing decisions.
• Government Agencies: Responsible for creating, implementing and enforcing the regulations.
• Legal Professionals: May see changes in the number of contract disputes.

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