§ 17. Mr. DismoreTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what assessment he has made of the likely impact on health and safety at work of the Government's proposed legislation on corporate manslaughter. [167693]
§ Jane KennedyI am well aware of the keen interest that exists in this House on the proposed reforms. I congratulate my hon. Friend on the work he has done in promoting this issue.
The Home Office is leading on the preparation of the draft bill on corporate manslaughter.
847WA Regulatory Impact Assessment, dealing with both the potential costs and benefits of change, is being prepared. This will be made available when the Government publishes their proposals for legislation.
The new legislation will have a positive impact on health and safety by bringing to account those that grossly fail to comply with existing health and safety legislation. We have, however, already made clear that the law will not create new standards in the health and safety requirements.
Following extensive consultation, the Home Office intends to publish the draft bill shortly. This will fulfil the Government's commitment given in the manifesto and in Revitalising Health and Safety.