§ Mr. Derek TwiggTo ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what plans he has for reform of Part 1 of the Deregulation and Contracting Out Act 1994. [74713]
§ Dr. Jack CunninghamThe Government have reviewed the operation of the deregulation order-making power in Part 1 of the Act. We believe the safeguards in the process are proven, but that the legislative limitations on the application of this power restrict our ability to deal effectively with measures which are no longer needed, or which impose a greater burden than necessary.
When Parliamentary time allows, the Government intend to extend the scope of the deregulation order-making process, whilst maintaining the statutory protection against its misuse. I am launching today an extensive public consultation on proposals for reform of this power. I have sent copies of the consultation document to all MPs and have placed copies in the Libraries of the House.