Ministers announce ‘one in, one out’ red tape plan
MINISTERS have pledged to cut down on red tape with a new “one in, one out” policy that will mean any new regulation has to be matched by the removal of one that imposes similar costs on businesses.
The new approach is part of a range of policies announded by the Government aimed at reducing bureaucracy including the establishment of a new Regulatory Policy Committee that will consider whether a proper case has been established to support new rules and regulations.
Business Secretary Vince Cable said: “We have to move quickly delivering credible and meaningful reductions in the burdens that hinder hard-pressed businesses and charities. We have to create a common sense approach in the way we think about new laws.
“By ensuring regulation becomes a last resort, we will create an environment that frees business from the burden of red tape, helping to create the right conditions for recovery and growth in the UK economy.”
The Government has already launched a new website, Your Freedom, giving individuals the chance to nominate laws or regulations that they would like to see scrapped.
Adam Marshall, director of policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “We commend the coalition for its efforts to reduce the regulatory burden that all too often holds back business growth. Announcements on ‘one in one out’ rules for new regulations, together with stronger scrutiny of both domestic and EU regulatory proposals, are a step forward.
“The Regulatory Policy Committee has already made a real difference – holding Whitehall departments to account by rigorously assessing proposed regulations. At a time when business needs every chance it can get at driving economic growth, the beefed-up role for the Committee is essential.
“Now that the new administration’s regulatory mechanics have been announced, they must show tangible results – so that businesses can see the benefits as soon as possible.”
