HC Deb 11 November 1996 vol 285 c51W
12. Mr. Wilkinson

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister if he will list the EU directives and regulations implemented in the parliamentary Session 1995–96 which have contributed to a diminution of the regulatory burdens of small businesses in Britain. [1311]

Mr. Freeman

I share my hon. Friend's concern about the potential burdens that new regulations can place on small businesses. This is a message I continue to emphasise to the European Commission and to colleagues in other member states.

I am pleased to note the recent announcement that the number of new proposals for legislation from the Commission has fallen yet again, from 48 in 1993 to just 16 for 1997.