Alongside many new challenges connected to abuse of the internet, unsafe counterfeit alcohol, dangerous appliances and other 21st Century hazards, Trading Standards are still charged with enforcing the oldest form of consumer protection, the Hallmarking of precious metals. Although this may not be an overtly priority area, the opportunities for fraud and criminal activity are high and many hallmarking investigations reveal significant consumer detriment. Upholding the long-established rigorous UK hallmarking regime is an important responsibility for Trading Standards.

Birmingham Assay Office is pleased to announce the appointment of a new Chairman, Carol Brady MBE. Carol succeeds Kate Hartigan following Kate’s retirement in October, after 14 years as Guardian, and 6 years as Chair of the Assay Office.

The AnchorCert Group continues to invest heavily in its training and education division, this week launching a new website to support the AnchorCert Academy.