UK Exempts Cultural Charities from New Membership Cancellation Rules

The UK government has decided to exclude charitable, cultural, and heritage organizations from new consumer protection regulations that would have allowed members to cancel and receive refunds within a two-week period. This exemption applies to the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act (DMCCA), which received royal assent under the previous Conservative government and is scheduled to take effect early next year. Hilary McGrady, director-general of the National Trust, expressed relief at the decision, noting that the organization has over five million members and could have faced significant financial losses. The Department for Business and Trade stated that the exemption recognizes the unique role these institutions play in preserving and providing access to national history, landscapes, and cultural collections. Art Fund UK also welcomed the move, emphasizing that its National Art Pass membership scheme supports museums and galleries across the country. Last year, leaders from the Victoria and Albert Museum, the National Trust, and the Tate had warned that the proposed rules could undermine their membership programs. According to government officials, museums and similar entities may qualify for the exemption if they are registered charities and operate membership schemes aligned with their charitable missions, such as offering access to performances, collections, or sites.