DORSET’S Trading Standards chief has welcomed calls for a crackdown on rogue traders, with their victims given greater powers to get their money back.

The Law Commission, which reviews and reforms laws in England and Wales, says scams and rip-offs are common and more needs to be done to drive unscrupulous doorstep sellers out of business.

In some cases vulnerable, elderly and disabled people have been pressured to buy mobility aids with prices inflated by as much as 400 per cent.

Research by Consumer Focus found that two out of three people have been targeted and the current law is “far from clear”.

Under new proposals, consumers who have been duped or pressured into buying a product they do not want through fake “wins” or “free” goods that come at a cost would have the right to “unwind” the transaction.

They could also return the item and get a refund for up to three months after the sale, and claim extra losses for distress and inconvenience.

Dorset County Council’s Trading Standards manager Ivan Hancock said: “Anything that offers more protection to consumers and clarifies the law must be welcomed.

“The real problem is proving, beyond reasonable doubt, what has gone on in someone’s home as it is their word against that of an unscrupulous trader.

“If you are in a shop or market and you are being pressurised it is easier to leave than if someone is under your roof.

“Our advice is to politely ask them to leave. If necessary, remind them that if they come back they are committing an offence under the Consumer Protection Regulations.”

He added: “If you want a job done, secure three quotes and rely on word of mouth. Money is tight but it’s never worth cutting corners or acting in haste.

“Unscrupulous doorstep sellers tend to carry out small building or roofing jobs which escalate in price, or offer to replace guttering and fascias, install new driveways and clean carpets at cut-price.”

• The Law Commission consultation ends on July 12.