The limit on the value of awards that people in Scotland can receive through the small claims system increases fourfold from today.

The change, which comes into effect following the passage of the The Small Claims (Scotland) Amendment Order last year, will see the amount it is possible to claim increase from £750 to £3,000.

The Scottish Consumer Council (SCC), which promotes the interests of consumers in Scotland and has campaigned for the change, said the increase in the limit on small claims is a significant step towards matching the law with the reality of how people buy goods and services.

Douglas Sinclair, the chair of the SCC said: “We have been lobbying hard for a realistic small claims limit for a number of years. Today the law moves in to line with the reality of people's spending. Every day people in Scotland buy expensive items such as computers, holidays and home improvements, and they will now enjoy protection when they spend up to £3,000 instead of just £750.

"It is important that this change is widely publicised – not just to ensure everyone knows their new entitlement, but also as an incentive to businesses to ensure that they trade fairly.”

Related news items:

• Banks face OFT referral unless customer service improves
• Government pledges cap on surgery waiting times
• New build buyers need more protection
• New measures to improve standards in property management
• Parliament urged to give consumers new legal protection