Wednesday 18th of March 2009
New measures have been announced by the government to help those struggling with debt in the current economic climate.
Prime minister Gordon Brown revealed a number of steps, including plans to introduce new rules for debt enforcement.
And he highlighted the forthcoming introduction of debt relief orders, which are designed to provide support for those on low incomes who could not previously afford to go bankrupt.
These will apply to people who have become insolvent and owe less than £15,000.
Mr Brown also confirmed that credit card companies would be prevented from raising limits where customers have not requested this, while unsolicited credit card cheques will be banned.
"The changes we’re dealing with as a country right now are enormous. But we are determined to do our bit," the prime minister told an audience of consumer groups.
Other measures announced include an intention to tackle fraud such as get-rich-quick schemes and investment scams.
