PCR Test Providers Warned Against Breaking Consumer Law

Patient samples are transferred by scientists into plates before entering the PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) process for COVID-19 testing at the Glasgow Lighthouse coronavirus testing facility, in Glasgow, UK, in an undated file photo. Jane Barlow/PA

The competition watchdog has warned PCR COVID test providers that they risk enforcement action over misleading advertising and failing to deliver results on time.

In an open letter to providers, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said a range of harmful practices, such as upfront prices that do not include additional charges and failing to deliver results within stated timescales, could breach consumer protection law.