Farmers face strict liability

Consideration of the implications for farmers and fishermen of the Consumer Protection Act 1987 (Product Liability) Modification Order 2000 is given by Hilary Ross in the 25 January 2001 Law Society Gazette . A full reading is strongly recommended. The modification, effective from 1 December last, extends the definition of a ‘product’ to cover all moveable products, including electricity. As a result, agricultural products – animal and vegetable – fall within the scope of strict liability for damage caused to the wellbeing of consumers or their property.