The government’s review of how the impact of policy on businesses is assessed must consider the needs of smaller firms, it has been claimed.
Last week, Cabinet Office minister Hilary Armstrong launched a review of how the government consults businesses, the third sector and citizens on significant decisions.
The government is aiming to improve the effectiveness of its consultation process by looking at what questions should be asked, who should be consulted and how the government should best respond to the feedback it receives.
Matt Hardman, a spokesman for the Forum of Private Business (FPB), expressed concerns that the current assessment procedure often ignores the impact of regulations on small firms
He said: “In the UK the government must give a 12-week consultation period which is welcome.
“Where the process falls down is the assessment of the potential impact of new or amended regulations on smaller firms and we hope that the review can concentrate on that.”
Businesses have now been invited to offer their views on how the government can improve its consultation process.
Responses will inform the development of a revised consultation policy to be launched in 2008, the government said.
Hilary Armstrong, the minister with overall responsibility for the government’s better regulation agenda, commented: “As a minister I really value consultation because it helps us to make better decisions. Everyone benefits from good consultation.
“By listening to concerns from businesses and third sector organisations about how we consult we can continue to make improvements.”
The consultation closes on September 28. Interested parties should visit www.consultations.gov.uk for instructions on how to submit feedback.
© Crimson Business Ltd. 2007
