What is significant about the Consumer Protection Act 1987 in relation to negligence?

The significance of the Consumer Protection Act 1987 lies in its establishment of a framework for consumer protection that specifically addresses issues of liability related to faulty goods. Under this Act, a manufacturer or supplier can be held strictly liable for damage caused by defective products that are sold for private use. This means that a consumer does not need to prove negligence or fault on the part of the manufacturer; it is sufficient to demonstrate that the product was faulty and caused harm. This shift towards strict liability is crucial as it enhances consumer rights and provides a more straightforward path for obtaining compensation when injured by defective goods.

The emphasis on strict liability means that consumers are better protected, as they can rely on this legal provision without the complexities associated with demonstrating negligence—which can often involve proving that the manufacturer failed to meet a standard of care. Therefore, the Consumer Protection Act 1987 represents a vital development in consumer law, making it easier for consumers to seek redress and encouraging manufacturers to maintain higher safety standards in their products.