Regulatory measures in Budget can be most significant step yet to address burdens on business

Release date: 12/03/2008

Today’s measures announced in the Budget on Regulation, if carried forward, could represent one of the most significant steps yet taken to address regulatory burdens on business according to EEF, the manufacturers organisation.

Commenting, Ian Peters , Director of External Affairs, said:

“At last government would be putting the lid on the inexorable growth of Regulation. Forcing government departments to pay the same price as business would finally demonstrate the cost that companies have to pay on a day to day basis.”

“A review of the regulation of small firms who often suffer most will be especially welcomed by business. However, this will need to demonstrate real, practical benefits to companies that will be both visible and measurable.”

EEF also welcomed the review of official guidance headed by Sarah Anderson, an issue EEF had raised with Ministers

Ian Peters added:

“Whilst guidance can be helpful to business, in practice its status can often be unclear. At best this causes confusion but at worst it can assume the status of law with companies unwarily paying the price by failing to comply.”

ENDS

Notes for editors