10/09/2012

Ministers Announce Scrapping Of Thousands Of Health And Safety Regulations

Ministers have announced plans to scrap or change more than 3000 health and safety regulations, exempting thousands of business from inspections.

New rules to be introduced in April 2013 mean checks will no longer be routinely carried out on premises considered to be low risk, such as shops, with ministers saying the checks can place an unnecessary burden on some businesses.

But some trade unions have said it risks the safety of employees and customers.

The government says its drive to cut bureaucracy will save companies millions of pounds.

Business Secretary Vince Cable said businesses need to focus on creating jobs and growth rather than "being tied up in unnecessary red tape".

He said: "I've listened to those concerns and we're determined to put common sense back into areas like health and safety, which will reduce costs and fear of burdensome inspections."

(H)


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