Home PC market fair says Govt watchdog

A study by the Office for Fair Trading has concluded that the home PC market in the UK is competitive.

A study by the Office for Fair Trading has concluded that the home PC market in the UK is competitive.

Any apparent differences in price between the UK and other countries can be explained by the UK consumer's preference for more powerful, highly specified systems, according to the Government department.

The survey found that buying direct from the manufacturers or mail order got users best value for money, although there was keen price competition across different types of outlet, including retail parks and the High Street.

John Bridgeman, Director General of Fair Trading, said: "Overall, the market is both dynamic and innovative, and continual improvements in the quality of the products is ensuring that prices are falling over the long term."

The survey followed concerns that anti-competitive practices could have been responsible for international differences in PC prices.