ARMS’ direct billing problem

I can confirm that my problem is solved but not before I raised the matter in the press (July 13) and after I had exhausted all possibilites with ARMS Ltd’s customer care, to no avail.

I did not download any application. I signed an unsolicited form posted to me prominently offering a reduction on bills settled by direct debit when the small print stated that applying for the offer was in itself an authorisation to direct debit. I was not aware of that fact and my demand to be shown the document was refused, until I raised the matter in the press.

ARMS customer care refused to accept my request that I be allowed to cancel the authorisation for direct debit.

After I raised the matter in the press, not before, I was promised that an application to cancel would be posted to me. Up to now I have not received that form.

HSBC have already accepted my instructions to cancel that direct debit order, once again only after I raised the matter in the press.

I never accused ARMS of actually withdrawing any money by direct debit; they withdrew funds on the strength of my cheques. Unreasonably, ARMS wanted to retain a right to withdraw the same amount by direct debiting of the same bill. That was unreasonable.