Short-term loans to the public for the purchase of goods. The most common forms of consumer credit are credit accounts at retail outlets, personal loans from banks and finance houses, *hire purchase, and credit cards. Since the *Consumer Credit Act (1974). the borrower has been given greater protection, particularly with regard to regulations establishing the true rate of interest being charged when loans are made (see ANNUAL PERCENTAGE RATE). The Act also made it necessary for anyone giving credit in a business (with minor exceptions) to obtain a license.
