§ 29. Mr. SteenTo ask the President of the Board of Trade, pursuant to his answer of 17 June,Official Report, columns 500–51, what assessment he has made of the effect of recent community directives on the profitability of small businesses.
§ Mr. LeighMy Department's deregulation unit monitors proposals for legislation from the European Commission and identifies those which are likely to impose significant burdens on business. In conjunction with other Departments, we seek to ensure that the costs of those directives are properly assessed and taken into account by the Commission through its fiche d'impact system. Departments also take account of compliance costs when they consult business and interested parties on proposals both during negotiations and at implementation stage.
206WThe views of small business organisations are sought and taken into account in this process. The directives listed in the reply referred to are under consideration, and have been or will be subject to appropriate assessment and consultation.