Government White Paper looks to ease regulatory burden

A new government White Paper has set out new principles for UK regulators to help reduce the bureaucratic burden on British businesses.

The paper, published 16th May, makes use of the UK’s greater regulatory freedoms brought about by its departure from the European Union. Features set out include creation of a register of regulators to create a ‘one-stop shop’ for information, the ability for some self-certification to reduce the burden of inspections and training on small businesses, and ten new ‘guiding principles’ for regulators to follow in day-to-day decision making.

Proposals will also limit the introduction of new regulations except when ‘absolutely necessary’ to prevent unexpected changes from impacting existing businesses.

The White Paper forms part of the government’s Smarter Regulation Programme, launched in 2023, which is estimated to have saved 50 million hours of work for businesses, worth around £1 billion to the UK economy.

Department will also lay out plans to redefine a ‘medium business’ as having under 500 employees (currently 250 employees) so fewer firms have to produce lengthy ‘strategic reports’, saving around 43,000 firms up to £150 million a year.

Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch said:

“This government is seizing the benefits of Brexit by reducing burdens on business, pushing down the cost of living, and driving growth in every corner of the economy.

“The Smarter Regulation Programme I launched last year is ensuring that our regulations work for the job-creators and wealth-makers of the economy.

“The reforms we outline today will give entrepreneurial businesses more opportunity to innovate, experiment, and capitalise on the UK’s global leadership in key sectors.”

Minister for Smarter Regulation Lord Johnson said:

“Supporting businesses can only work if we provide them with the environment to thrive and grow.

“This Smarter Regulation package is about providing a world class service for businesses, consumers and society as a whole so we can create an economy that fosters innovation and investment and encourages growth.”