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 08 August 2007
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Metrication

Introduction

Since 1965 the United Kingdom has been adopting metric weights and measures in response to the adoption of metric units as the international system of measurement.

Metric units of measurement are now used for most transactions regulated by the Weights and Measures Act 1985. In addition, it is Government policy to encourage the adoption of the metric system for other purposes, including public administration.

Goods sold loose by weight (mainly fresh foods) from 1 January 2000 are required to be sold in grams and kilograms.

• Retailers can continue to display the price per imperial unit alongside the price per metric unit.

• Consumers can continue to express in ounces and pounds the quantity they wish to buy. Retailers will weigh out the equivalent quantity in grams and kilograms.

International System of Units (SI)

The International System of Units (or Système International d'Unités, hence SI) is the modern version of the metric system.

You can read more about the International System of Units (SI), including the names and definitions of individual units and its history, by following the links on the right.

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