Lankem Ceylon PLC. v. Consumer Affairs Authority and Others – CA NO. 245/2011-2011

In the case between Lankem Ceylon PLC (Petitioner) and the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA), its officers, and L.C.C. de Silva (Respondents), the court addressed the issue of whether the Consumer Affairs Authority had jurisdiction to adjudicate the complaint relating to ineffective termite control services and whether the Authority’s inquiry complied with principles of natural justice, specifically affording a fair hearing and access to complaint documentation. The court held that although the Consumer Affairs Authority Act empowered the CAA to entertain disputes involving goods and services, the manner in which the inquiry was conducted violated natural justice due to failure to provide timely access to the complaint, to deal with preliminary objections, and to ensure an adequate opportun