Government

Thousands of people are being ripped off by unregulated claims management and will-writing companies with no legal recourse, it was claimed today.

The Office of Fair Trading has opened investigations into a number of websites that charge people for government services that are available either for free or for a lower price.

Energy Secretary Chris Huhne today insisted proposed reforms of the electricity market provided the "best possible solution" to protect consumers against the kind of price hikes seen in recent days.

Cheques have been saved from extinction after a dramatic U-turn by the banking industry.

Care costs for the elderly should be capped by the state at £35,000, a Government-commissioned review urged today.

Up to six million extra holidays could be covered by the Air Travel Operator's Scheme (ATOL) if new Government proposals are approved.

Single mothers will be hit harder than any other group by the coalition Government's programme of benefit cuts and tax rises, losing an average 8.5% of their income after tax by 2015, according to a report released today.

Lobby group Consumer Focus is set to be abolished under Government plans released today.

The boss of British Gas has defended the energy industry in the face of public anger at rising prices.