Offence Explanation
The advertisement on the display window of the travel agency indicated that discounted tickets to Hokkaido are offered at the price of HK$999 with the intention to attract consumers who walk by. However, that flight tickets had been sold out in 5 minutes after the agency was opened for business. In fact, the travel agency offered only 1 ticket for supply . Under such circumstance, the travel agency failed to offer the product for supply at the specified price for a reasonable period and in a reasonable quantity. The agency may have committed the offence of bait advertising under the Ordinance.
Reminder to Consumer
Wise Tips
- Consumers should read the content of advertisements in detail and pay attention to the quantities, period, additional charge and restrictive clauses relating to the goods offered by traders.
- Consumers can enquire the traders about availability of the goods or services before going to the shops.
Access to Redress
- To lodge a complaint, as the case may be, with the following organizations:
- Customs and Excise Department
- Office of the Communications Authority (On broadcasting and telecommunications services)
- Consumer Council
- If you suffer loss because of conduct of another person that is directed to you and constituted the above-mentioned offence, you may commence civil action for damages:
- If the claim does not exceed $50,000: Small Claims Tribunal
- If the claim exceeds $50,000, but does not exceed $1,000,000: District Court
- If the claim exceeds $1,000,000: Court of First Instance of the High Court
Besides, as the case may be, you may seek legal advice and/or assistance from: