A defence of promotions

Samples, free gifts, competitions and even trading stamps are severely curtailed or forbidden in EEC member countries, and British manufacturers and retailers will be hindered by this same legislation if steps taken to harmonise the laws of unfair competition are proceeded with. Christina Fulop strongly criticises these laws, which in her view go further than is necessary for the maintenance of fair competition. She also comments on the undesirability of combining this legislation with consumer protection measures, as has been done by the EEC legislators. Finally, she pleads for an examination ‘from first principles’ of practices considered suitable for harmonisation, in the light of consumer behaviour and current trading developments.