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7 June 2006
Fair Trading Amendment Bill
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Full Day Hansard Transcript
« Prior Item
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About this Item
Consumer Affairs; Advertising; Press; Government Department: New South Wales: Fair Trading
Turner Mr John
Perry Mrs Barbara
Maguire Mr Daryl
Judge Ms Virginia
D'Amore Ms Angela
Beamer Ms Diane
Bill, Second Reading, Motion
Page: 798
Second Reading
Debate resumed from 24 May 2006.
Mr JOHN TURNER
(Myall Lakes) [12.28 p.m.]: The Opposition will not oppose this bill, but it has reservations about some parts of it. The bill, which has a number of aspects, amends the Fair Trading Act to extend the application of the Act to actions outside New South Wales in so far as possible. The premise is that in this modern age, actions by people outside the State relating to consumer fraud and other actions that are actionable through the Department of Fair Trading can impact on people in New South Wales. The Crimes Act gives the department extraterritorial rights to take such action. I understand from the Minister's second reading speech that normally, however, one agency would take action and the other agencies would come in behind it to seek national injunctions against those who infringe upon the consumer rights of New South Wales by coming through the back door of another State. The Opposition agrees with that.
Another aim of the bill is to control the practice of false billing and false advertising when an authority to advertise has not been in place. I have been the victim of that practice on the part of an organisation purporting to hold itself out as a certain body. I got the bill. We were quick enough to realise, however, that we had not advertised with that organisation—indeed, we had no intention of advertising with it. The legislation provides that if people are to send out these unsolicited offers for entries in directories, they will have to give clear notification on the document, in 18-point font, "This is not a bill. You are not required to pay money." Many large organisations have been targeted, and the Minister's second reading speech referred to the fact that millions of dollars had been reaped through this corrupt and illegal practice. I do not know how far the bill will go towards stamping out the practice, because when one door closes another door seems to be opened by these unscrupulous people. That takes me to the scams that are operating around the place, but I will confine myself to advertising.
Large corporations, government bodies and newspapers with a circulation of 10,000 or more will be exempt from this part of the bill. I am a little concerned—and perhaps the Minister will address this in her reply—about the provision that says that for a newspaper organisation to be exempt it must have a circulation of 10,000. Many newspapers in my electorate have a circulation of far less than that. For example, the
Great Lakes Advocate
has a circulation of 1,500 or 1,800 and, similarly, the circulation of the
Gloucester Advocate
would be quite small. But I presume they would be caught under the corporate provisions of the exemption in the sense that they are owned by Rural Press, which circulates a large number of newspapers. Indeed, that large public company would publish millions of newspapers a year. The provision should be clarified so that smaller newspapers do not have to go through the authority rigmarole that is required under the Act if they are not granted exemption.
I want to speak briefly about the amendments to section 20. Although we will not oppose them, I will put some concerns on the record. First I will go through the areas of no conflict. There is a provision empowering the Commissioner for Fair Trading to order the sale, destruction or disposal of items in the possession of the commissioner that are obtained under search warrant and are no longer needed and cannot be returned to the custody of any person. Apparently that provision does not exist at present and it is creating problems within the Office of Fair Trading.
Ms Diane Beamer:
Storage problems.
Mr JOHN TURNER:
As the Minister said, there are storage problems, and I can understand that. I presume that all due diligence would be undertaken in relation to that provision to ensure that people who are entitled to the items are properly sought out and have their property returned to them if it is at all feasible. Another provision of the bill seeks to rationalise advisory councils, with regard to both the number and size of them. I note that some councils, when they are formed, would have a membership of between 6 and 16, and some between 5 and 15. I presume this gives the Minister some leeway as to whom she selects for the advisory councils. Obviously a council would not need to have 16 members, but perhaps a number in between to ensure it has quality membership.
I raised this matter with a number of organisations to obtain their views. The Master Builders Association contacted me and advised that applications for positions on the ministerial council closed in March and that no advice was received that a new home building council was to be created under the Home Building Act at that time. It seems that we may have this legislation back to front. I am not sure why applications for positions on the ministerial council closed in March given that the legislation is before the House in June. In December 2003 the home building advisory council was reconstituted as a result of the Grellman inquiry, and future meetings were consequently identified as meetings of the reconstituted council. Grellman recommended the establishment of the warranty scheme board and the home warranty advisory council.
The trade notes that it has not received any notice as to the function of the proposed new home building council and whether it will include the function of a home warranty advisory council, as recommended by Grellman. Perhaps the Minister will determine whether the recommended home warranty advisory council will be part of the home building council in due course. I have not received anything from the Motor Traders Association in relation to the proposed changes to the Council of the Motor Vehicle Repair Industry Authority and the establishment of the Motor Trade Advisory Council. I trust that the Government has consulted with the organisations that will be affected by that. Perhaps the Minister will clarify that in her reply as well. I return to the part of the bill that is of concern to me. Including the provisions of section 9 (1) (c) and section 9 (2) in section 20 means that the director general may investigate a matter that is the subject of a complaint received under section 9 (1) (c), or may refer the matter to a public authority or other body that the director general considers best able to take action or provide advice in relation to the complaint. Section 9 (2) of the Act provides:
(2) The Director-General shall:
(a) keep under critical examination, and from time to time report to the Minister on, the laws in force, and other matters, relating to the interests of consumers, and
(b) report to the Minister on matters relating to the interests of consumers that are referred to the Director-General by the Minister,
and, for those purposes, may conduct research and make investigations.
The powers under section 20 are quite significant, and the proposals in the bill will enhance those powers. I am concerned that the functions of the director general as set out in the wording I have just enunciated—particularly in section 9 (2) (b)—could lead to the use of coercive powers in certain instances. There does not appear to be any restraint on that other than that the powers can only be issued and used by the director general or his or her delegate. There have been examples of zealous inspectors operating under the powers currently available to them, and those examples have been enunciated. I intend to touch on some of them in a moment. I do not want to see inspectors and employees of the department assuming bovver boy tactics in relation to traders. This is what is known as fair trading, and there must be a balance between the consumer and the trader in this area.
I have received many complaints where a trader has been prejudged and deemed at fault, and the powers under the Act have been used indiscriminately and in an agitating manner. In 2004 I made representations to the then Minister for Fair Trading, the Hon. Reba Meagher, about a real estate agent in my electorate—whom I do not intend to name—who unwittingly was drawn into a dispute. His late father and another person were involved in a real estate transaction. The other person felt aggrieved and made a complaint to the Office of Fair Trading. The department contacted my constituent, who then travelled to the Newcastle office to assist the department in its inquiries. He supplied full copies of sales files and all other necessary information to a departmental officer. The officer said that if he needed further information he would contact my constituent and make mutual arrangements in that regard.
Three weeks later two other departmental officers arrived unannounced at my constituent's real estate office. Only one officer identified himself by business card. At the time my constituent was not in the office. However, his wife was present, together with a number of clients of the firm, including two tenants of properties administered by the business. I point out that the office is in a small country town, where everybody knows one another. In front of the clients and the tenants, and without asking for the name or job description of my constituent's wife, the two officers read from a schedule and demanded documents. My constituent's wife, who was acutely embarrassed because of the presence of clients and the personal nature of the matter, asked the officers to write down their requirements. She said that she or her husband would attend to the inquiry and the officers could return later and collect the documents. The officers acted in a demanding, demeaning and unsatisfactory manner. In a letter to me my constituent wrote:
What I find insulting is that unsubstantiated allegations were canvassed publicly in a small country office.
The town has a population of only 1,100. The letter continued:
The conduct of the investigators from the Department of Fair Trading is completely unwarranted considering I have fulfilled all requests of the office.
That case study is relevant to my concerns about the amendments in the bill. I have received assurances from the Minister's office that the provisions will be carefully monitored and it is hoped that such situations will not occur. I note that the honourable member for Londonderry, the Chairman of the Legislation Review Committee, has also received assurances from the Minister's office about these provisions. The case I referred to is not an isolated incident. In my capacity as the shadow Minister for Fair Trading I was approached by a person who had technically breached the Act. I cannot give too many details about the matter because it is before the court.
A leading auctioneer, who had 30 to 40 years experience in the business and an unblemished record and had lectured on auctioneering, was required to undertake a bridging course of a couple hours duration. He had been exempted from the accreditation course. He understood that on completion of the bridging course he would be able to conduct auctions. In my view, he could conduct auctions anyway. The paperwork from the department was not processed in the required time. He conducted an auction and was found to have technically breached the Act. As I said, I am limited in what I can say about the matter. This person was treated in the same manner. The heavy hand of the department came down on him and officers turned up at his office at odd hours making demands.
Such conduct by the department is not conducive to fair practice. Fair trade means a fair trade between the consumer and the trader. I do not believe that principle is operating at the moment. To give a third example—again in my electorate and similar to the situation that occurred with the real estate agent in the small country town—a man selling toys was raided when his shop was full of customers. During the raid the departmental officers made loud allegations about him. He conducted himself in a manner that he thought was correct and proper. When he was told there were banned toys on the shelves, he immediately removed them. A short time later he was revisited by the officers, who went into his storeroom where they had observed the retailer put the toys and charged him for having the toys on his premises. We do not want to see that type of conduct. The Opposition's concerns about that part of the bill are fair and reasonable.
Although similar provisions operate in Victoria, it does not necessarily follow that it is good law. I have recounted three stories where there has been a zealous reaction by the Office of Fair Trading. However, the Minister has advised the chairman of the Legislation Review Committee that the provision will be carefully monitored and excessive use of the power will be contained. The Opposition will not oppose the bill but my colleague the honourable member for Wagga Wagga will speak to it and, I regret to say, highlight some areas in which the department has been zealous in its actions, and express his concerns about the provisions I have referred to.
Mrs BARBARA PERRY
(Auburn) [12.46 p.m.]: I am pleased to support the Fair Trading Amendment Bill. The role of the Office of Fair Trading is to serve the consumers and traders of New South Wales. The office safeguards consumer rights, and advises businesses and traders on fair and ethical practice. About five million requests for Fair Trading services are received each year via phone, counter, mail and electronic channels. On more than 30,000 occasions a member of the public has sought help with marketplace disputes, and 74 per cent of those disputes have been successfully negotiated. More than 14,000 compliance-related activities have been conducted. The legislation that underpins all this activity is the Fair Trading Act 1987, which is the principal legislation that protects New South Wales consumers from deceptive, dishonest and unfair commercial conduct. The Act also sets out the functions and powers of the Commissioner for Fair Trading, and advises on the establishment of ministerial advisory councils.
The amendments will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Commissioner for Fair Trading and her staff in carrying out their work on behalf of the people of New South Wales. I wish to speak in support of the proposals relating to the commissioner's powers. The functions of the Commissioner for Fair Trading are set out in section 9 of the Fair Trading Act. One effect of section 9 is to enable the commissioner to take action to remedy breaches of legislation. The Act provides investigators appointed by the commissioner with powers of entry and inspection, the power to search and seize under the authority of a search warrant, and the power to obtain information, documents and evidence.
The power to obtain information cannot be used in support of any of the other functions of the commissioner. For example, when an officer of the Office of Fair Trading is working to resolve a complaint from a consumer, there may be no suggestion that the trader has acted in contravention of the law. The officer seeks to obtain information from the trader in order to negotiate a resolution to a dispute, but must rely on the good faith of the trader to supply the information. I am happy to say that in the majority of cases traders are co-operative, but there are instances where a power to demand information would assist in achieving a fair outcome.
The proposed amendments to section 20 will permit the commissioner to exercise the power to obtain information, documents and evidence in relation to matters that are the subject of a complaint received under section 9, or matters that are the subject of investigations into the laws in force and other matters relating to the interests of consumers carried out in accordance with section 9. As the honourable member for Myall Lakes said, the Victorian Fair Trading Act is a precedent. However, the Minister has given an assurance that this new power will not be used lightly.
The bill provides that the commissioner can delegate these powers to an officer. In the case of the Office of Fair Trading, only the senior officers in the customer service, compliance or policy fields will have such a delegation, and circumstances in which the power is used will be clearly defined. Of course, in most instances that power will not be needed. Traders generally co-operate with the Office of Fair Trading in resolving disputes with consumers. These powers become essential to the commissioner when a rogue trader disregards the interests of consumers and refuses to allow the Office of Fair Trading to conciliate and negotiate a solution to a consumer's complaint. The amendment will ensure that the commissioner has the powers she needs to act in the interests of New South Wales consumers. I commend the bill to the House.
Mr DARYL MAGUIRE
(Wagga Wagga) [12.50 p.m.]: Having had a business retail background for 23 years before coming into this place, I take a particular interest in fair trading, as all retailers and businesspeople should. The Office of Fair Trading is an important agency on which consumers rely, and business executives and business operators must comply with its orders. The shadow Minister has led for the Opposition and outlined our concerns about certain aspects of the bill. I read the Minister's second reading speech very carefully and I will refer in particular to the proposed amendments to section 20, which relate to complaints received under section 9.
On 2 March this year I raised in this House a problem with a company called Manton Auctioneers Pty Limited. By way of a private member's statement I drew to the attention of the House a matter concerning Marcia Sutton, who is a constituent of mine. In March 2004 she obtained from Victorian company Manton Auctioneers Pty Limited estimates of between $23,300 and $28,800 to sell her antiques in Victoria. Company director Colleen Willcox failed to place reserve prices on the antiques, as promised, and claimed that the antiques were sold for $7,220, less her commission. On that occasion I stated that several letters of demand from Marcia Sutton's solicitor had failed to result in any payment for the items and the Office of Fair Trading was unable to resolve the matter.
I will further enlighten the Minister and her department on the actions that have been taken by Marcia Sutton to obtain justice and, in fact, her dues in the form of the money collected for the sale of her goods. I hope the Minister can tell me whether this legislation will help her department to address the concerns I raised in that private member's statement. In response to my statement Minister Milton Orkopoulos said that he would take up the two issues I referred to: representations to the Minister, and uniformity in consumer protection laws and legislation relating to auctioneers. I hope this legislation addresses those issues. Further to my private member's statement, Marcia Sutton has written to me providing an update. She states:
March 2004 Estimates were given by Manton Auctioneers Pty. Ltd. of between $23.300 and $28.800 to sell my antiques.
The Director Mrs. Colleen Wilcox claims
without proof
that she sold the antiques for $7,220. (
less her commission
) She failed to place the reserves as promised.
Several letters of demand from the solicitors failed to receive any payment for these items.
Fair Trading Office unable to resolve the matter. Application to the CTTT was made resulting in A Court Order for Manton's to pay me the money by 8/10/04. This Order has been ignored by Colleen Wilcox.
Court Order registered at Wagga Wagga, then registered at Frankston Victoria, with costs and interest to the 16/11/05. This Court Order now totals $11,963.91. The Sheriff was paid $165.00 to seize property, Mrs. Wilcox said she didn't have anything to seize. Because of bankruptcy laws the sheriff had to leave. I paid the sheriff to seize the company vehicle, valued at over $40.000 it cannot be seized (
under finance
Tax Office couldn't help regarding GST payment on items sold because of privacy laws.
Several letters to Fair Trading and the CTTT regarding my attempts to enforce the order, their answer was that they had dealt with the matter, and suggested the Local Court.
Several letters to the Attorney General asking for assistance. Their reply suggested The dept. of Fair Trading and the Sheriff.
Prime Ministers Office suggested I contact ACCC and ASIC.
ASIC have decided (
without reason
) that they will not investigate this company. According to ASIC information on (
Phoenix Companies
) it is against the law to register another Company leaving the previous one in debt. Mrs Wilcox now operates her auctions under her new Company (
Wilcox Auctioneers Pty. Ltd
.) Again ACIC have decided (
without reason
) not to investigate.
A company solicitor started action to wind up Manton Auctioneers, all correspondence was ignored by Colleen Wilcox. It will cost thousands to proceed with this action, at the end of which we would find that the director has removed all asserts.
Mrs Sutton has contacted my office on several occasions. Her letter continues:
I contact detectives regarding fraud, May 2005. My statement was taken at Wagga then transferred to Hastings Victoria. The detectives there said they have to prove that Colleen Wilcox intended to commit fraud.
I have over the past 20 months attempted to contact Mrs. Wilcox and ask for my money, because of these attempts she then used the courts to take out an intervention order against me at further expense to me I travelled to Melbourne to have it successfully revoked.
Mrs Sutton has also contacted her Federal member, Mrs Kay Hull, who suggested that she write to the Hon. Mal Brough and the Hon. Chris Pearce, who in turn suggested she contact the Australian Securities and Investments Commission [ASIC]. The Hon. Philip Ruddock suggested that she take local court action, which she had already taken. Mrs Sutton's letter continues:
I wrote to the Ombudsman regarding ASIC the Ombudsman (
without giving a reason
) said ASIC would not be further investigated regarding my complaint. According to Mr. Hamilton-Smith from the Ombudsman's Office he considered Manton' s actions as theft.
I have again written to the Ombudsman regarding ASIC information on (
Phoenix Companies
I have written to The Office of Fair Trading (
Compliance Branch
) regarding willful disobedience during the hearings, and for disobeying the Court Order.
I have made an application with the CTTT against the Director for not complying with the Order. (although I was told I cannot do this I have a hearing date set for the 25/1/06) I have to convince the Member to continue with a hearing against the director.
I need to provide this information to enable the Minister to tell me whether she can take action against this company, which I deem as operating fraudulently. Who knows how many other actions have been taken against this new company, which was clearly out to deceive Mrs Sutton. Another letter from Mrs Sutton states:
Further to my problem with Manton Auctioneers, My application with CTTT against Colleen Wilcox and her conduct as a director was finalized on Wednesday 25/1/06 without success to continue, as it cannot be separated from the finalized matter the company, as the judgment has already been made.
I have lodged a complaint with Fair Trading compliance Branch in regards to Colleen Wilcox Willful disobedience of the Court Order.
And her conduct during the hearings, by referring to the CTTT Act 2001 Numbers 42 and 71.
Colleen Wilcox provided information to the tribunal in the form of an Affidavit and Declaration, knowing the information was false and misleading.
Some Companies in Victoria are permitted to operate without assets, Insurance, or a Licence, (as it is with Manton's). Colleen has now allowed Manton's to go into liquidation (Worrells in Victoria are appointed) copy enclosed.
This is a deliberate attempt to of course pay debts, I believe. She has removed all assets from Manton's. She now operates as I said as Wilcox Auctioneers.
Marcia Sutton's concerns with regard to this legislation are just. This woman has explored every avenue and approached every department available to her to try to recover the funds due to her. In a further update on 2 June she wrote:
Thank you for your correspondence in reference to The Minister for Fair Trading Ms. Diane Beamer 30/5/06.
That was a reference to the Minister's second reading speech relating to this proposed legislation.
My concerns are that I have been issued with a CTTT Court Order knowing it is impossible to enforce, due to Companies being permitted to operate without a Licence, Insurance, and without Assets …
No penalty in place for deliberately failing to comply with a Court Order …
False and misleading statements provided to the Tribunal by Mrs. Wilcox in her Affidavit and Declaration without supporting evidence, has been addressed in my letter to the Compliance Branch (waiting on a reply) …
Contempt of Court is also a crime CTTT Act 2001 42. information from Mr. Chris Lacy (Diane Beamer's Office)
I have been advised to contact the Police regarding this matter.
If I understand the Hansard, amendments will be made with the issue regarding Misleading Deceptive and Unconscionable conduct.
Mrs. Wilcox has not been held accountable for her Misleading and Deceptive Estimates.
As a consumer with little knowledge of Court proceedings, it is difficult to be aware of one' s rights during the hearings …
In summary through dealing with the matter extensively over a two year period, I have been dealing with the Respondent (Mrs. Wilcox) who blatantly indicated to me that she knew how the "system" works and I would be wasting my time pursuing any money owed to me.
From what I have [sourced], there are already penalties in place but sadly it appears these penalties are only there to frighten people into fulfilling their obligation to society.
Those that contend and boast that they know how the "system"
(are the winners)
Advice had been received from the Ombudsman that only a certain amount of cases can be dealt with due to lack of resources and finance. Here again the "system" come into play. …
Mrs Sutton also expressed her gratitude for the assistance provided to her so far. [
Extension of time agreed to.
I know that my contribution has been lengthy. I apologise for that, but the information I am providing is necessary to enable the Minister to give a clear and accurate response in relation to the intent of the changes to sections 9 and 20 regarding the investigation of official complaints to the Commissioner for Fair Trading. I remind the Minister that the details of this case are recorded in
and the matter has been ongoing for some time. Will this legislation enable the Minister and her department to retrospectively review this case and take action to ensure that it is dealt with? The legislation is designed to give the Department of Fair Trading the ability to conduct investigations in other States.
If further complaints are made to the department about Manton Auctioneers, or Wilcox Auctioneers, the name by which it now trades, will this legislation enable the department to investigate those complaints and take action in New South Wales or Victoria to ensure that this kind of an ethical trading does not continue? Mrs Sutton has lost a lot of money; and she has gone to an enormous amount of trouble and expense to seek redress. Despite the fact that she has approached all departments, Ministers and commissioners in an attempt to address this problem she has not been able to achieve justice. Will this bill do that? Will the changes to sections 9 and 20 achieve an outcome if complaints are lodged in future about this company, or others trading across borders?
Ms VIRGINIA JUDGE
(Strathfield) [1.04 p.m.]: I am pleased to support the Fair Trading Amendment Bill. I commend the Minister and the hardworking staff in her department for bringing this bill before the House. In essence, the bill deals with two issues. First, it extends the net of the legislation so that it can apply extraterritorially to protect consumers and small business operators from unscrupulous traders. Second, it seeks to reduce the advisory bodies from five to four. There has been a considerable amount of overlap with regard to the two bodies that deal with motor trading, for example, membership. The legislation will allow that to be finetuned so that duplication can be avoided. The Office of Fair Trading has an important enforcement role in ensuring fairness in the New South Wales marketplace and protection of consumers and small business from unscrupulous traders.
The principal legislation that underpins this activity is the Fair Trading Act 1987. The amendments will enhance the effectiveness of the Act. We live in a world in which economic activity is increasingly national and global in scope. Sadly, scams cross borders and regulators also have to be able to operate across borders. In 2004 the State and Territory Fair Trading and Consumer Protection Ministers agreed there was a need to overcome the legal and logistical complications in taking action against traders with national operations or operations in other jurisdictions. The Ministers proposed to reduce duplication of regulatory effort by States and Territories and enhance collective action to address consumer interests nationally. That has to be a step in the right direction.
To achieve that end, the Ministers agreed to the principles of seeking nationally beneficial outcomes and enhanced co-ordination with respect to compliance, investigation and enforcement action. New South Wales is an active participant in co-operative strategies to deal with traders who engage in unlawful conduct in several jurisdictions at once. However, New South Wales has been at a disadvantage because of the limited territorial reach of the Fair Trading Act. For example, a trader engaging in unlawful practices had an address in Sydney but traded in all States. In taking action against the trader, the New South Wales Office of Fair Trading sought to obtain an injunction with national application, but, as the Fair Trading Act was interpreted as applying only to New South Wales, the injunction granted was limited to New South Wales.
The bill will remedy that situation by extending the operation of the Fair Trading Act to conduct that occurs outside New South Wales but has a relevant link within New South Wales. The amendment will bring the New South Wales Fair Trading Act into line with the fair trading legislation of the Australian Capital Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia, all of which have provisions giving them operation outside of State or Territory borders if there is a sufficient link with the State or Territory. Proposed section 5A makes it clear that the Fair Trading Act applies extraterritorially to the full extent of the Parliament's legislative power and that it extends to conduct either in or outside New South Wales that is connected with goods or services supplied in New South Wales, or affects a person in New South Wales, or results in loss or damage in New South Wales.
The Fair Trading Act 1987 establishes a number of statutory bodies that provide advice to the Minister and Commissioner for Fair Trading in relation to a number of areas within the portfolio. The proposed amendments will retain three existing advisory councils—Fair Trading, Property Services and Retirement Villages. Recently the hardworking Minister for Fair Trading attended a Cabinet meeting in my electorate. She took the time to speak to residents of a retirement village in the electorate about some of the proposed changes. It was a very successful meeting. Having digressed somewhat, I return to the bill. The bill will abolish the Council of the Motor Vehicle Repair Industry Authority and amalgamate that council with the Motor Trade Advisory Council to form the Motor Vehicle Industry Advisory Council. Membership numbers are also rationalised, with each advisory council to have not fewer than six and not more than sixteen members. Those reforms to the ministerial councils will ensure that they function more efficiently and are better able to meet their obligations under the Fair Trading Act. I encourage all honourable members to support the bill.
Ms ANGELA D'AMORE
(Drummoyne) [1.09 p.m.]: I support the bill, particularly the aspects regarding false billing and the power of the Office of Fair Trading to destroy items. False billing is an example of scam activity that has led to the implementation of a national strategy to identify and act against major operators with a view to closing down their businesses. False billing, also known as invoice fraud, is the practice of fraudulently demanding payment for unsolicited advertising in a publication or trade directory. Operators target small businesses and trick them into paying for advertising services they never ordered. False billing is prohibited by fair trading legislation in all States and action has been taken against operators who purport to publish sham journals with names such as "National Firefighters", "Safety Gazette", "On Patrol", "National Disaster Relief News" and "National Police Bulletin".
Running a successful prosecution against these fraudsters is extremely resource intensive. In an attempt to reduce the level of false billing and make prosecution of false billers easier, Queensland and Victoria have amended their fair trading legislation to include provisions additional to those applying in New South Wales. The bill will adopt similar provisions. The proposed amendment to section 58 provides that a person shall be taken to be demanding payment if they send an invoice or other document stating the amount of a payment or the price of goods or services, unless the document contains a prescribed statement at the top of the first page, in upper case and not less than 18 point font, which states, "This is not a bill. You are not required to pay any money."
The inclusion of such a clear and prominent statement is expected to reduce the likelihood that small businesses will inadvertently pay for unsolicited goods or services or unauthorised directory entries and, therefore, act as a disincentive to false billers. The requirement to include the statement will also facilitate the prosecution of false billers who fail to comply by making it easier to prove that the false biller demanded payment for unsolicited goods and services or unauthorised directory entries. The introduction in New South Wales of the requirement, also under section 58, to have written authority for placing an entry in a directory dramatically reduced the level of false billing in relation to directories. However, that requirement did not apply to the publishing of advertisements, and false billers have taken advantage of this regulatory gap. In 2003 Victoria closed this gap by aligning the requirements for publishing an advertisement with those for placing an entry in a directory.
Proposed section 58A will harmonise with the Victorian provisions by providing that it is an offence to assert the right to payment for certain unauthorised advertisements. Proposed section 58A mirrors the provisions in section 58 with regard to directory entries, so that a person is prohibited from demanding payment for publication of an advertisement unless that person has obtained written authority to publish. Proposed section 58A contains the same exemptions as those that apply in Victoria. They ensure that newspapers and other legitimate publications that carry large numbers of advertisements are not subject to time-consuming written authority requirements.
The other amendment that I wish to refer to relates to items held in the possession of the Office of Fair Trading. In 2004 the Government amended the Fair Trading Act to empower investigators, under the authority of a search warrant, to enter and search any place for evidence of a contravention of the Act and to seize anything that is connected with any such contravention. Once these items are no longer required as evidence, they are returned, if possible, to whomever had lawful possession of them. If it is not possible to return such items to the custody of any person, they are retained by the Office of Fair Trading, as there is no power to destroy or dispose of these items. Proposed section 19A provides for anything seized under the authority of a search warrant to be sold, destroyed or otherwise disposed of if it is not required as evidence and cannot be returned to someone who had lawful possession of it. The proceeds of any sale are to be paid to the Treasurer for payment into the Consolidated Fund. Proposed section 93 contains the same provisions in respect of anything obtained in the course of an investigation, other than anything seized under a search warrant. I commend the bill to the House.
Ms DIANE BEAMER
(Mulgoa—Minister for Western Sydney, Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce) [1.13 p.m.], in reply: I thank the honourable member for Auburn, the honourable member for Strathfield, the honourable member for Drummoyne, the honourable member for Myall Lakes, and the honourable member for Wagga Wagga for their contributions to the debate on this important bill. In reply I will address a number of issues raised by the honourable member for Myall Lakes and the honourable member for Wagga Wagga. The honourable member for Myall Lakes raised concerns about the expansion of the power of the commissioner to obtain information. Although the commissioner already has some power to request information, that power does not extend to all of her functions. The amendment in the bill will provide the commissioner with the power to request information to assist her in carrying out all of her duties.
As has been mentioned, the amendment mirrors provisions contained in Victorian legislation. It is a power of last resort and will be used with great discretion. Generally, traders co-operate with fair trading investigations. That means that this power will rarely need to be used. It is important to note, however, that information that is obtained through this process will be inadmissible in any criminal proceedings. The Government believes there is a clear consumer interest in the commissioner having this power—that is the reason for this amendment—but it should be made clear that it cannot be used as a tool in criminal proceedings.
The honourable member for Myall Lakes also raised concerns about the circulation of 10,000 copies per week or more of a publication. That relates to listed corporations and their subsidiaries that have an audited accreditation of 10,000, not only an individual country newspaper. The honourable member for Myall Lakes asked why advertisements have been placed regarding advisory councils. The advertisements were placed in anticipation of this bill being enacted. Membership of advisory bodies has ceased and we want to make sure that we can quickly transition into the new advisory councils that are to be set up.
The honourable member for Wagga Wagga outlined the circumstances of one of his constituents. The person involved may be assisted by some of the provisions of the bill that extend the power of the Fair Trading Act outside New South Wales to cover cases where consumers in New South Wales are affected by the conduct of people in another State. The Office of Fair Trading can co-operate with Victoria to investigate cases such as that mentioned by the honourable member for Wagga Wagga. There are certainly some sad cases in which people with outstanding litigation against a person who has gone bankrupt cannot retrieve their money from that person. However, it appears that most of the complaints made by the honourable member for Wagga Wagga should be addressed by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission. I suggest he continue to rigorously pursue, through his Federal colleagues, the avenues he spoke about.
The Fair Trading Act is the principal statute protecting New South Wales consumers from deceptive and dishonest conduct. The amendments in the bill that will outlaw false billing and allow the Office of Fair Trading to take action against conduct that occurs outside New South Wales will increase the level of protection provided to New South Wales consumers. The other amendments contained in this bill will assist the commissioner and her staff in carrying out her functions more efficiently, ensuring New South Wales consumers are provided with the protection they deserve. I commend the bill to the House.
Motion agreed to.
Bill read a second time and passed through remaining stages.
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Hi I am sundragon. :angel: I am new here. I love Anime and like to discuss it
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subset: commoncrawl


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Symptoms Of Being Hiv Positive In A Woman
Here's a taste of what TheBody.com has to offer on this topic:
Get the Facts
Women, Anemia and HIV/AIDS...since people started using HIV drug combinations, anemia continues to affect up to 30 percent of HIV-positive people taking HIV drugs. Factors that are linked to a higher rate of anemia in HIV-positive people include: Being a woman Being African American Having lower CD4 cell counts Having a higher viral load Taking Retrovir (zidovudine, AZT) Anemia is a common condition for HIV-positive women, but it is often overlooked. If left...
Ask the Experts
HIV (Pregnant Woman)Dear Doctor,My girlfriend is pregnant past 8 months.We did test for HIV in a well reputated hospital in August and fairly it was negative.But after having test she went to her mother house.There she went to a district hospital as a place is not well...
Response from Robert J. Frascino, M.D.
The Robert James Frascino AIDS Foundation...old heterosexual male. About 5 weeks ago I experienced a burring sensation in my urine after having non protective sex with a woman who now I am dating. I went to a walk in clinic and they prescribed me bacterium. After 1 week of that not working... Read more »
Is anal sex ok with a woman that has HIV/AIDSI am interested in a woman who has HIV/AIDS. She wants to have anal sex not vaginal sex and that is fine with me. Her disease is not active or full blown. Is it all right to have anal sex with her if we take it slow and easy and use lots of K-Y...
Response from Robert J. Frascino, M.D.
The Robert James Frascino AIDS Foundation...Hello, Let me clarify a few points for you:1.There is no such thing as an HIV infection that is "not active."2.We don't use the term "full blown AIDS," because there is no such thing as "partially blown Read more »
Had unprotected sex with hiv positive womanI was horrified to find out that a woman I slept with may be HIV positive. We had unprotected sex and there was blood afterwards. I also shaved my penis the same night and there was a couple of small cuts. Im totally freaked out. I made a huge...
Response from Robert J. Frascino, M.D.
The Robert James Frascino AIDS Foundation...This forum is dedicated to HIV-positive folks, particularly those who have concerns related to fatigue and/or anemia. Questions related to HIV transmission, Read more »
What is the probability of acquiring HIV through sex with an infected woman?Before I ask this question I just want to add that I plan on being tested for HIV in the next month but must exit the country I am living in to do so. I live in Saudi Arabia and fear being deported if I was found to be HIV positive. Here is what...
Response from Robert J. Frascino, M.D.
The Robert James Frascino AIDS Foundation...Hi,The estimated per-act risk for acquiring HIV from insertive penile-vaginal sex with a partner confirmed to be HIV positive is 5 per 10,000 exposures. Your estimated risk Read more »
HIV & Me: A Woman's Guide to Living With HIV: HIV in Women and Men: What's the Difference?...men. However, there are differences between men and women when it comes to living with HIV -- in fact, living with HIV as a woman can often be more complicated than it is for a man. CHILDREN More than half of HIV-positive women have children.... Read more »
Former Pop Star Sherri Lewis Talks About Living With HIV - HIV/AIDS Resource Center for Women...perfectly healthy, and I wanted to get a clean bill of health. The AIDS test had just come out. It was brand new. I knew one woman who died of AIDS, but they said she had cancer. Anyway, it scared me enough that I asked to get an AIDS test three... Read more »
First Person: An Interview With Shelley Singer...that's what this is." I was floored. He said, "Have you ever had an HIV test?" I said, "No, of course not. I'm married. I'm a woman. Why would I? You know, come on." What city was this? This was here in L.A. L.A. was the place where HIV... Read more »
Women and HIV/AIDS...men. However, as the years passed, women have emerged asanother group hard hit by the AIDS epidemic. Even though more men than womenstill have HIV in the US, women are catching up. In some countries, HIV+ womenoutnumber HIV+ men. The proportion... Read more »
Connect With Others
Living with HIV as a Young Woman
Posted by asya...I just read an article on SavvyMiss.com about a 23-year-old woman living with HIV and her struggle with the disease. I can't believe she has to go through this at such a young age, but she is Read more »
I'm 23 and Living with HIV: One Woman's Story
Posted by asya...I just read an article on SavvyMiss.com about a 23-year-old woman living with HIV and her struggle with the disease. I can't believe she has to go through this at such a young age, but she is Read more »
hiv from fingering a woman?
Posted by Anonymous, 3 Replies...earlier before i fingered a woman (around 8hrs earlier i would say) i had scratch (that was bleeding)above my knuckle. it was not bleeding nor did it look like Read more »
Woman HIV+ and dating...
Posted by Anonymous, 6 Replies...ever find someone who can love me for just me? My ex-husband was also + (and I think the one who infected me)... any other women out there with some advice? Sorry to rant... Read more »
Resource Centers
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text:
Tapping into others' experience
Published: Sunday, August 10, 2008 at 1:00 a.m.
Last Modified: Friday, August 8, 2008 at 4:21 p.m.
At the heart of Kristy Kiernan's new novel are several relationships with which Kiernan has no firsthand experience.
"Matters of Faith" by Kristy Kiernan is the current
selection of the Herald-Tribune Book Club. Kiernan will read from, discuss
and sign copies of the book at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 27 in the Community Room at
the Herald-Tribune, 1741 Main St., Sarasota. Free; call 361-4930 or e-mail
firstname.lastname@example.com. Copies of the book are for sale at a discount
at Sarasota News & Books, 1341 Main St., Sarasota. Call 365-6332.
In "Matters of Faith," a Florida teenager's search for faith splinters his family, whose focus has been on his younger sister's severe food allergies. When Marshall and his girlfriend, Ada, come home from college for a visit and take Meghan out on the family boat, Ada's belief that medical intervention is evil leads to a crisis.
But even before the crisis with Meghan erupts, her parents, Chloe and Cal, are in trouble.
"Matters of Faith" (Berkley Trade Paperback Original, $14) is the current selection of the Herald-Tribune Book Club. Kiernan will discuss the book at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 27 in the Herald-Tribune's Community Room.
Kiernan tapped into her lifelong history as a listening post for her friends to capture the dynamic of Chloe and Cal's struggling marriage.
She and her husband, Richard, have been married 18 years, during which time they have seen many of their friends' marriages collapse.
"What I really wanted to do with Chloe and Cal was to sketch out a little bit of how that happens," she said, "when all the little things happen and there's this slow breakdown of liking each other, of being kind to each other on a daily basis. And then what do you do?"
Kiernan has no children, so she tapped into the several years she spent caring for her aging grandparents to explore the parent-child relationship. Her grandparents' infirmities helped her with the aspects of caring for a special-needs child.
"I did have to slow down and I did have to be extremely patient and pay particular attention to their needs," said Kiernan, who lives in Naples. "I think I did get a sense of what it was like to a parent with a special-needs child."
One aspect of the book -- Meghan's food allergies -- was sparked by reports from several years ago about a teenager in Canada, severely allergic to peanuts, who died after kissing her boyfriend, who hours earlier had eaten peanut butter on toast. It was later proved that the girl's death was not caused by that distant exposure to nuts, but, said Kiernan, "the fascination had set in."
Because Meghan's food allergies are the most tangible of the themes Kiernan explores, she wanted to be very respectful and accurate in that portrayal.
"Not only have I never lived with a child with a life-threatening condition, I don't know any," she said. "It was very important to me to portray it in a very realistic way."
Through online research, she discovered the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (www.foodallergy.org) and KFA (www.kidswithfood allergies.org), where discussion forums gave her insight into what parents are feeling "and their frustration at how little other people understand."
The aspects of Marshall's faith journey reflect Kiernan's own interest since childhood.
The toughest character for Kiernan was Marshall's girlfriend, Ada, who in Kiernan's view is far too self-involved.
"I think one of the best qualities a writer can have is empathy," she said. "I was always possibly even too concerned with how other people felt, or their viewpoint, and Ada's not. She sort of has blinders on. She mostly sees and hears what she wants to see and hear. I have sympathy for her, but not empathy."
Instead, Kiernan focused on understanding Ada through Chloe's eyes, and through Marshall's.
"In almost everybody else, there's a part of me," she said.
This story appeared in print on page E6
Reader comments posted to this article may be published in our print edition. All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.
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Bills land Harvin, seek Clay [1:59 AM]
Buffalo News reports: 'The News also learned that the Bills did not, as expected, sign tight end Charles Clay to an offer sheet Friday, but, according to a source close to the situation, still fully intend to do so.'
Bills continue to make splashes, sign Percy Harvin [1:58 AM]
Rochester D&C reports: 'What an offseason it has been for the Bills, and this latest addition could make a mammoth difference in the Buffalo offense.'
Buffalo Bills sign wide receiver Percy Harvin to one-year deal, according to report [1:57 AM]
Syracuse Post-Standard reports: 'He makes an ideal slot receiver in a Bills offense that has already added LeSean McCoy at running back and is hot on the trail of free agent tight end Charles Clay.'
AP sources: Harvin to Bills on 1-year deal [1:56 AM]
AP reports: 'Although Harvin had an outstanding Super Bowl, including an 87-yard kickoff return for a touchdown to start the second half, he quickly wore out his welcome in Seattle. By last October, he was a Jet. Now, he's a Bill.'
Bills OT Henderson gets top performance bonus [1:55 AM]
AP reports: 'A seventh-round draft choice from the University of Miami, Henderson was paid the rookie minimum of $420,000 in salary, with a $50,880 bonus. He was on the field for every Bills offensive play last season, and 15 percent of special teams snaps. That earned him the biggest bonus for last season, the NFL announced Friday.'
Report: Bills land Harvin [1:54 AM]
The Sports Network reports: 'A source close to the situation told ESPN.com that Harvin's new pact is a one- year deal.'
Report: Bills, WR Harvin agree to one-year deal [1:53 AM]
The Sports Xchange reports: 'Watkins tweeted about the news (edited): "We got Percy_Harvin. That's who I always tried to play like on the field. Now I'm ballin with him."'
Report: Bills sign Percy Harvin [1:52 AM]
WGR-AM reports: 'Harvin was drafted in 2009 by the Vikings and was selected as the AP offensive rookie of the year after his rookie season. He was traded to the Seahawks in March of 2013. After winning a Super Bowl with Seattle, he was traded to the Jets in October of 2014 for a conditional draft pick.'
Contract extension for Kyle Williams [1:51 AM]
BuffaloBills.com reports: 'Williams' extension likely helped to provide the club with more cap space in 2015 to leave the team in a more flexible fiscal situation.'
Bills continue courtship of Dolphins' Clay [1:59 AM]
Buffalo News reports: 'The Bills were expected to present Clay with an offer sheet by Thursday, structuring it in such a way that the Dolphins would be discouraged from matching it to retain him. The offer never came, and Clay decided he wanted to return home, the source said.'
Lawyer for Bills' Dareus continues to seek plea deal in suspected drag-racing case [1:58 AM]
Buffalo News reports: 'Michael P. Caffery said he hopes to resolve the case through a guilty plea to a noncriminal charge. If no deal is reached with the Erie County District Attorney's Office by April 7, he said, the case will proceed to trial May 19 in Hamburg Town Court.'
Bills add 3 players; no word on Harvin, Clay [1:57 AM]
Rochester D&C reports: 'The Bills, who have already cut their former starting tight end, Scott Chandler, and lost one of his backups, Lee Smith, to Oakland in free agency, are down to Marqueis Gray and Chris Gragg as tight ends on the roster. One name that surfaced as another potential tight end target was nine-year veteran Anthony Fasano, even though he's not even an upgrade over Chandler.'
Is Tyrod Taylor serious competition for Matt Cassel, EJ Manuel in Buffalo? Rex Ryan says yes [1:56 AM]
Syracuse Post-Standard reports: '"I know both of those guys have played in this league and had success in this league," Taylor said. "I'm looking forward to competing with those guys. I'm looking forward to us pushing each other, making each other better and like I said, just making the team better."'
Plea negotiations ongoing for Buffalo Bills DT Marcell Dareus in alleged drag-racing incident [1:55 AM]
Syracuse Post-Standard reports: 'The charges against Dareus include reckless endangerment, reckless driving, unlawful speed contest and leaving the scene of an accident. Dareus rejected a previous deal to plead guilty to a misdemeanor charge of reckless driving, according to the Associated Press.'
Birmingham native and NFL vet Marcell Dareus donates $100k to rebuild hometown park [1:54 AM]
Birmingham News reports: '"I'm really excited to come back to Birmingham and revitalize the park I played in as a child," Dareus said in the release. "I want the kids who play here to know that they have the same opportunities to succeed as I did. And what better way to do that than to give them a safe and clean environment in which to play."'
Bills sign former Ravens backup quarterback Tyrod Taylor [1:53 AM]
AP reports: 'Taylor signed a two-year contract Thursday, a day after arriving in Buffalo to meet team officials. He's the second quarterback the Bills have added this week, after acquiring veteran Matt Cassel in a trade with Minnesota.'
Bills' Dareus still in talks to reduce car-racing charges [1:52 AM]
AP reports: 'Dareus' attorney Michael Caffery said Thursday he and the Erie County District Attorney's office are still "trying to work it out" following a brief appearance in Hamburg Town Court.'
Bills sign QB Taylor; re-sign Easley, Wynn [1:51 AM]
The Sports Xchange reports: 'Wynn's deal reportedly is for two years and $2.2 million. The seven-year veteran has played for five NFL teams but seems to have found a home in Buffalo, where he is expected to push for a starting spot.'
Bills re-sign Easley, Wynn per report [1:50 AM]
WGR-AM reports: 'According to Aaron Wilson of NationalFootballPost.com, Easley signed a new four-year deal to remain with the Bills that will pay him a total $7 million over the span of the contract. It also will pay out a signing bonus of $1.7 million, and comes with a guaranteed $2.2 million.'
Rex Ryan tells Toronto station that Bills signed QB Tyrod Taylor [1:49 AM]
WGR-AM reports: '"With the addition of Matt Cassel, we just signed Tyrod Taylor and EJ Manuel, now we have three guys... we'll see what happens."'
Marcus Easley re-signs in Buffalo [1:48 AM]
BuffaloBills.com reports: '"Coming back to Buffalo was always option number one," Easley told Buffalobills.com. "The interest was mutual on both sides. Doug (Whaley) told me that he wanted to bring me back. There was never any doubt that I wanted to come here."'
Bills add another QB in Tyrod Taylor [1:47 AM]
BuffaloBills.com reports: '"It came very fast," Taylor told Buffalobills.com. "I didn't know what to expect going into the free agent market. There was interest from a couple of different teams. I felt this was the best fit for me moving forward so I signed the papers today."'
Cassel came to compete [1:59 AM]
Buffalo News reports: '"I think I've been in this league long enough to know that you've got to compete in everything that you do," said Cassel, who was introduced to the Western New York media on Wednesday, a day after his trade from the Minnesota Vikings became official. "You have to earn every opportunity you get, so I know there's going to be competition."'
Bills' ground game stronger with Felton [1:58 AM]
Buffalo News reports: '"It shows they're serious about winning and winning now," Felton said Wednesday, after being introduced as the Bills' first unrestricted free-agent signing of the offseason. "From the ownership to the head coach to the general manager, everybody is on the same page and that is what is so exciting about being here.'
Bills' retooling continues [1:57 AM]
Rochester D&C reports: '"I think that if you look at teams that have had success and won Super Bowls and gone deep in the playoffs, they all have a good running game and they do play a physical style of football," Felton said. "It's difficult because I think when you look at college football nowadays, it's a lot of spread offenses so it is harder to find a good fullback. Guys like me and Vonta Leach before me and Sam Gash before him, it's important for us to continue doing what we're doing. It's usually a cyclical league and it will come back around."'
Bills' Matt Cassel excited to battle for QB job [1:56 AM]
Rochester D&C reports: '"I think that we definitely can achieve the level of success and I think I can achieve that level of success," he said. "I think it's about consistency. I think everything at the quarterback position comes with consistency. I still think I've got a lot of football left in me."'
Fresh off broken foot, Matt Cassel 'ready to compete' with EJ Manuel for Buffalo Bills QB [1:55 AM]
Syracuse Post-Standard reports: '"I think I've been in this league long enough to know that you have to compete in everything you do," Cassel said. "You have to earn every opportunity that you get. I know that there is going to be competition and I know that EJ (Manuel) is here. He is a young, talented player and I expect that there is going to be a competition. Again, you have to go out and earn your opportunity in this league."'
Buffalo Bills release tight end Scott Chandler, clear salary cap space [1:54 AM]
Syracuse Post-Standard reports: 'Meanwhile, the Bills also have Marqueis Gray and Chris Gragg on the roster at the tight end position. Both players are young, cheap and have shown some promise.'
Bills president Russ Brandon has moved on from Doug Marrone and is envisioning Super Bowl parade in [1:53 AM]
Syracuse Post-Standard reports: '"To win a championship and bring the Lombardi Trophy down Delaware Avenue, and stop on Chippewa would be a hell of a time for all of us," Brandon said. "You're only in this business to win.'
Chip Kelly says Buffalo Bills leaked LeSean McCoy trade before he could tell him [1:52 AM]
Syracuse Post-Standard reports: '"So, I called my agent to see exactly what was going on, and he said it was true," McCoy said in his introductory press conference Tuesday. "We talked about it and my first reaction definitely was, I was disappointed just because my team didn't really … I didn't know what was going on. I had been in Philadelphia my whole life. For the six years, it was great. But, once I sat down and relaxed, I had some thought to myself. I talked to my family and I felt it was the best move. I felt like a team actually wanted me. It was possible to make this trade go through. They want a player and a running back that's going to give them everything they have, 110 percent. So, at the end of the day, I'm happy to be here."'
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This delightful 17th-century hotel enjoys a wonderful location at the water's edge, adjacent to the castle and the quay. Public areas include a bright brasserie where organic and local produce are uti...More about The George Hotel
In an idyllic location on the island's southern heritage coast, the Albion Hotel is right on the seafront with stunning views of Freshwater Bay. The bedrooms and bathrooms are spacious and offer guest...More about Albion Hotel
Located in countryside close to the coast, this 17th-century house has 18th- and 19th-century additions. The charming rustic bedrooms have antique bathtubs. Comprehensive breakfasts using the finest i...More about The Old House
Located in the Shanklin Old Village, Fernbank offers modern, comfortable and spacious accommodation. Home-made refreshments are available throughout the afternoon and guests can enjoy a wide range of ...More about Fernbank
Enchanted Manor is a delightful property, set in charming grounds, and enjoys an enviable location within walking distance of the sea. The unusual theme of magic and enchantment prevails throughout th...More about Enchanted Manor
Located west of Ventnor, this family-run Metro hotel enjoys a quiet location and has some rooms with garden and pool views. Bedrooms are generally of a good size and meet the needs of leisure and busi...More about Eversley Hotel


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Property to let in Dyehouse Lane, New Mills, High Peak SK22
£1,300 pcm (£300 pw)
13 Heather Falls, New Mills, Stockport, High Peak SK22Detached house to rent
(HD video Available) wow what A view form the rear elevation you look over an uninterrupted landscape towards Kinder Scout and views over the Peak District! This new build property with 10 years NHBC cover has spacious four bedroom family ... More details
Note: Distances are straight line measurements
- New Mills Central (0.4 miles)
- New Mills Newtown (0.8 miles)
Marketed by Jolley & Co UK, SK6. Call 01663 227058


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Word of Mouth
12:41 pm
Wed September 25, 2013
How Much Talent Does America Really Have?
America's got talent! So does Britain…Pakistan, Nigeria, Greece, Vietnam, Sweden, Slovakia and a number of other countries in on the "Got Talent", "Idol" or "X-Factor" franchises of reality TV talent shows. As Meg Wolitzer put it in an essay for Financial Times: "Regardless of your locale, at some point you will be confronted with a fetching, trembling little girl with a voice that's powerful enough to shatter your eardrums, while still tender enough to break your frozen heart."
Wolitzer is the author of many books, most recently of The Interestings. Her essay, "In Search of the Real Thing" is a meditation on how our culture has come to equate talent with success.
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Motorcycle Gloves
Motorcycle Gloves
Macna Men's Summer Vantera Waterproof OutDry® Motorcycle GloveMacna's Vantera glove is a waterproof 3-season motorcycle glove for men that features three types of leather, a high-performance knuckle protection system, and a unique waterproof membrane. You'll be hard-pressed to find a glove that matches this level of comfort and protection. Learn More$219.99 $119.99
Macna Men's Cold Weather Polarctic Waterproof OutDry® Motorcycle GloveMacna's Polarctic motorcycle glove is a waterproof cold weather glove for men that features a combination of soft natural leathers and man-made leather, thermal insulation and a fur liner, as well as semi-hard knuckle armor for exceptional comfort and protection.
Learn More$249.99 $129.99
Macna Waterproof SprayWaterproof spray in 200ml spray containers. Learn More$13.99
Macna Women's Cold Weather Ruby Waterproof Motorcycle GloveMacna's Ruby motorcycle glove for women is a full-coverage waterproof cold weather glove made from a combination of soft goat leather and two types of man-made materials. Learn More$114.90 $59.99
Macna Men's Summer Morene Leather & Spandex Motorcycle GloveMacna's Morene summer motorcycle glove for men features soft goatskin leather in the palm and inside of the fingers, Nubuck leather in the palm and wrist, and Spandex fabric in the top of the fingers and hand for warm weather comfort. The Morene would also make a good off-road glove.
Learn More$67.00 $37.19
Macna Women's All-Season Candy Waterproof Motorcycle GloveMacna Women's "Candy" summer motorcycle soft goat leather riding gloves Learn More$99.99
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Learn More$89.99 $54.99
Macna Women's Summer Cata Waterproof Motorcycle GloveMacna's Cata motorcycle glove is a waterproof 3-season glove for women that features a combination of soft leather and man made materials, as well as semi-hard knuckle armor for exceptional comfort and protection. Learn More$94.00 $49.99
Macna Men's Summer Talik Leather Motorcycle GloveMacna's Talik summer motorcycle glove for men features soft, perforated leather and a mesh liner for warm weather comfort.
Learn More$85.00 $44.94


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Can I trim my tulip poplar tree?
button20(zone 7b)April 6, 2014
About 4 years ago I rescued a small tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) from a construction site to attract ETS. When I rescued the tree it stood about 3 ft tall. I thought tulip poplars took years to grow, but boy was I wrong. My tree now stands 12 ft and she/he is gorgeous. However, I would like to trim it. By trimming I mean reduce the tree's size to 6ft. Is it possible to do this? Can I make the tree more bushy in a sense?
bernergrrl(z5 IL)
I remember reading about "stooling" a tulip tree from this article linked below. Of course, I can't find my copy of the journal now.
Here is a link that might be useful: Tulip tree


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Coder, the latest project from Google's Creative Lab, is meant to be an environment for educators and parents to teach kids "the basics of building for the web"! To know more about the latest update about web design, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/philscanph! #philscan Internet Site, Creative Labs, Web Design, Website, Information Technology, Web Site, Raspberries Pi, Desarrollo Web, 2013 Web
Google Creative Lab Launches Coder To Turn Raspberry Pi Into A Basic Web…
Coder, a new project that's coming out of Google's Creative Lab, is an open source tool that allows you to easily turn a Raspberry Pi into a basic web server..
Philscan • 1 year ago


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You can now invite anyone to meet at your favorite Starbucks.
Limited-time feature
36 year old man | Girard, OH, USA | Seeking women 25-35 within 50 miles
Put her happiness before yours and she will make you feel the happiest you have ever felt.
I am an easy going individual. I consider myself more of a listner than talker. Im new to the whole online dating. Im hoping to find someone who enjoys a good laugh friendly conversation and see where fate may lead. I love the outdoors and trying new things. Im family orieantaded. Looking for someone who see's life as an adventure and enjoys the simple things. I am far from a materialistic individual, money helps but it doesnt buy happiness. Trust, communication and honesty are what i believe to be the foundation of healthy realationship.
Exploring new areas , Playing sports , Travel/Sightseeing
Billiards / Pool, Martial arts, Soccer, Weights / Machines
I exercise 5 or more times per week.
Im a traveler. Ive been to italy greece dubi turkey. Ive traveled the states from NY to California.
I'm into adventure and mystery movies. I enjoy R&B music. NCIS, Vegas The Following are my favorable tv shows, not much into reality shows. I love all kinds of food, far from picky.
I enjoy working out and stayin fit. I also dont mind a game of billiards from time to time. sled ridding in winter, as for summer anything outdoors.
Im a hard worker. i look forward to my vacations and spontanious weekend getaways. I'm hoping to find someone as a co-pilot and at times the pilot(due to lack of sense of direction).
Z{{Cta}} {{#if HasMoreInfo}} ?{{CtaSecondary}} {{/if}}
|What he is looking for
|5'7" (170cms)
|4'10" (147cms) to 6'0" (182cms)
|Body type:
|Athletic and toned
|Slender, Curvy, Athletic and toned
|No preference
|Dark brown
|No preference
|No Way
|Yes, but trying to quit
|I'll tell you later
|No preference
|Labor / Construction
|No preference
Heavy Machine operator Flooring expert
|$25,001 to $35,000
|$25,001 to $35,000
|Never Married
|No preference
|Have kids:
|Yes, and they sometimes live at home (1)
|No preference
|Wants kids:
|I'll tell you later
|No preference
|Middle Eastern
|No preference
I am Paestinian and Italian.
|Muslim / Islam
|No preference
|Arabic, English
|Some college
|High school


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TimesCast | Where is Qaddafi?
BY Ben Solomon | Aug. 22, 2011 | 1:51
As he still remains at large, John F. Burns reports on the various places Col. Muammar el-Qaddafi could currently be hiding.
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Present Stock
Our Grandfather Clocks
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A very early 18th century brass dial chestnut 30 HR duration single handed Longcase Clock. The movement striking hours on a single bell. Superb elegant collectable clock.
French 4 Glass Clock C1860
A fine week duration 2 piece porcelain dial with visible escapement French 4 glass clock with bevelled glass to sides and bell strike.
Antique Grandfather Clock by Katterns Thrapston
A fine colour and patination country oak brass dial 1 day clock. The movement striking the hours on a single bell. The elegant and unusual design oak case of small size C1780
Antique Grandfather Clock by Ellicott of London C1770
A truly outstanding 8 day grandfather clock by the King's Clockmaker at the time Ellicott, Sweetings Alley, Cornhill, London. Listed as one of the most eminent of English makers.
This beautiful flame mahogany veneered example showing all the highest London cabinet features. The finely matted dial with chapter ring and spandrels, strike silent to the arch, seconds and calendar to the dial centre. The dial also with plaque Sweetings Alley Cornhill and engraved with makers name Ellicott of London to chapter ring. Lovely 5 pillar high quality movement striking the hours on a single bell.
Antique Grandfather Clock by John King - London C1770
One of the finest London mahogany grandfather clocks with arched brass dial you will ever see. Superb 12 inch example showing only the finest London quality features both to the case and dial. The dial with chapter ring and spandrels and subsidiary seconds and calendar features, strike silent to the arch. The finest matting to the dial centre and the movement of 5 pillar design and striking the hours on a single bell. The cabinet of typical London design but with outstanding flame mahogany veneers and unusual base design. Amazing colour and patination, a collector's clock.
Antique Grandfather Clock by Marriott of London 1790
A superb example of the finest London craftsmanship. 8 day movement striking the hours on a single bell, 5 pillar movement. The dial with raised silvered centre with seconds and calendar features. Strike/ silent to the arch and spandrels to arch and dial corners. Case of fine flame veneers and dome top, 2 plinths, moulding to trunk door and raised base panel with fine moulding. Good colour and patination. John Marriot from this fine family of clockmakers was (Fetter Lane) Master of the Clockmakers Company in 1799
Geo. Binns, Covert Garden - London C1820
Superb flame mahogany veneers to this small double '8-day' fusee bracket clock with pull repeat function. The movement of good quality striking the hours on a bell. 'Fish scale' frets to side and pad top with brass beading surrounding and carrying handle. Convex white dial signed Geo. Binns, Covent Garden London.
Antique Walnut Chest of Drawers C1740
18th century walnut veneered chest of drawers of small size and of beautiful colour and patination. Quartered matched top.
Automaton music box Harp Monkey Early 20th century
A harp playing atomaton monkey with music box in base.
French Brass and Mahogany Mantel Clock C1900
A fine brass and mahogany French mantel clock with porcelain numerals and 8 day movement.
Minature French Carriage Clock C1880
A fine small minature brass carriage clock with engraved dial and ornate cabinet and of 8 day duration.


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Catch up on Dallas spoilers, Grey's Anatomy spoilers, Pretty Little Liars spoilers, Revenge Spoilers, and Venice The Series recaps.
Revenge season four.
Sunday February 1 10:00 PM:
"Revenge" will not be seen tonight.
Sunday March 8 10:00 PM:
Jack tells Emily, "You have to know... It's always been you."
When Margaux uses her ammunition against both Emily and Jack, their friendship takes a dramatic turn.
Natalie shows Victoria the true reason behind her arrival in the Hamptons.
Sunday March 15 10:00 PM:
Natalie is determined to flaunt her new fortune in Victoria's face.
David is invited to be Natalie's date at her giant Fourth of July bash.
Margaux steps up her plans to take down anyone who stands in her way.
Sunday March 22 10:00 PM:
Gail O'Grady (Stevie Grayson) returns as Jack's mother.
Emily fights to clear Jack's name in and out of court.
Newlyweds Nolan and Louise receive a visit from Officer Ben Hunter.
Sunday March 29 10:00 PM:
Courtney Love will first appear in the recurring role as a jet-setter named White Gold.
Margaux brings White Gold to town.
Sunday April 12 10:00 PM:
She's kept one secret from the world for years. Things are about to change.#Revenge is all-new Sunday at 10|9c on ABC!Posted by Revenge on Thursday, March 26, 2015
Emily faces a promising future as Amanda Clarke.
Victoria uncovers devastating new secrets from Emily's past.
Sunday April 19 10:00 PM:
Sunday April 26 10:00 PM:
Casting notes:
Kim Richards ("The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills") will guest star as a beach club member named Stephanie on January 25.
Elena Satine will now appear as a series regular, which means more airtime for her character Louise Ellis.
Gina Torres ("Suits") will appear in the recurring role of Natalie Walsh, who comes from a humble but ambitious background and is sure to cause tension amongst those she encounters. Look for the actress to appear when the show returns from mid-season break in early 2015.
Tommy Flanagan ("Sons of Anarchy") has landed a major recurring role as a powerful psychopath named Malcolm Black. He will begin airing in episode eleven when the show returns from winter break in early 2015.
Follow Soaps.com on Twitter, and Soaps.com on Facebook.
Header Photo Credit: ABC
- Christine Fix/Amy Mistretta


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