Written reply to PQ on Consumer protection safeguards and timely return of completed customers materials held by photography studios upon sudden cessation of business operations

Question:

Dr Choo Pei Ling: To ask the Minister for Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) (a) whether the Government has considered if adequate consumer protection safeguards exist for customers' completed photographs, albums and other materials held by service providers such as photography studios when a business ceases operations abruptly; and (b) whether measures can be taken to facilitate the timely return of such materials. 

Written Answer by Minister for Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) Dr Tan See Leng

1.       The recourse available to consumers on the treatment of their completed photographs, albums and other materials when a service provider such as a photography studio ceases operations abruptly, would depend on the contractual agreements between the parties. Customers should refer to the terms and conditions of their contracts to understand their rights and the obligations of the service provider. 

2.       Consumers who wish to retrieve their completed materials from the businesses may approach the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) for assistance or obtain independent legal advice on the avenues for recourse available to them.