HC Deb 25 February 1993 vol 219 c708W
15. Mr. Sumberg

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he is taking to reduce the burden of regulation on food retailers.

25. Mr. Duncan

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he is taking to reduce the burden of regulation on food manufacturers and processors.

Mr. Gummer

I have previously written to the British Retail Consortium inviting comments on burdens which food regulations may place upon its members.

I am today circulating more widely a consultation document setting out a possible deregulation programme in the food law sector which would move to a less regulatory system, so reducing unnecessary costs to business, which often are passed on to consumers in higher prices, restrictions on choice and loss of international competitiveness.

We shall of course continue to give full weight to our food safety and consumer protection objectives.

Further action will depend on the results of these consultations, but I envisage some simplifications or repeal of some existing regulations.

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