Member Article

Food sector small business asked opinion on regulation

Small businesses involved in food manufacturing are to have their say on the way regulations are enforced.

As the first review theme for the Government’s ‘Focus on Enforcement’ campaign, companies are being invited to feed back their experiences of working with national regulators and local authorities.

Business and Enterprise Minister Mark Prisk said: “Focus on Enforcement gives small businesses in food manufacturing the chance to make a real difference to the way regulators visit, inspect and advise and enforce the law.

“I want all small businesses involved in food manufacture, and those that advise and assist them, to visit the site and tell us their views.”

The review also gives businesses in other sectors the chance to make a difference to the way regulators do their work in their area.

The best suggestions for areas needing examination will guide Ministers in prioritising a series of reviews to identify the source of the problem and propose action.

Melanie Leech, Director General of the Food and Drink Federation said: “I welcome this review. Effective regulation is vital for consumers to have confidence in our food and drink.

“But our smaller members consistently tell us that Government action to reduce the burden of regulation not only by making necessary regulation smarter but through a better enforcement and inspection regime could make a real difference to their ability to compete.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .